5 high school girls tennis players to watch this season

Here are five standout high school girls tennis players from the St. Louis area to keep an eye on this season.

Read more about tennis and other high school sports on STLhighschoolsports.com.

Ali Kennedy, senior, St. Joseph’s

Kennedy and her partner Ashley Behan won the Class 3 doubles championship last fall in Springfield. Kennedy played No. 1 singles for the Angels, who lost to eventual team state champion John Burroughs in the district final. Kennedy helped St. Joseph's to team championships in 2021 and 2022.

Emmie Kinder, junior, Ursuline

Advanced to the Class 1 individual singles semifinals the last two years, losing to the eventual champion both times. Fell to Anaya Singh of Clayton in the championship in 2022 and to Leiloni Payton of Lincoln College Prep in the semis last year. Kinder helped the Bears finish third as a team in Class 1 last year.

Allie Wayne, junior, John Burroughs

Expected to take over the No. 1 spot for the Bombers, replacing four-time state medalist Sahana Madala. Wayne played No. 2 singles for the Bombers last year as they won the Class 3 team title. She combined with Eva Kasal to finish second in doubles in the Class 3 individual tournament. Finished fourth at state in singles as a freshman.

Katie Woods, junior, Edwardsville

The reigning Southwestern Conference Player of the Year. She did not lose a match against area players last season and continued that trend in sectionals. She lost just two games in her first three sectional matches before defeating Isabel Wells of O’Fallon in three sets.

Mia Yin, junior, Lafayette

Likely to take over the No. 1 singles spot from her sister Amber, who was undefeated Class 3 singles state champion last year. Mia played No. 2 singles for the Lancers, who finished third as a team. Mia teamed with Mary Sublette in doubles, winning four state matches and capturing the consolation title.