Sussex Academy boys’ tennis defends Henlopen South throne in 2026

Tennis at Sussex Academy has grown by leaps and bounds over the last couple of years, and after being the best team in the Henlopen South in 2025, the boys have higher goals this season.

“We've kept getting great players,” senior Logan Mattie said. “We've probably got the deepest roster in the state by far.”

A total of 16 players will swing rackets and chase down balls for the Seahawks this year, and 11 of them are sophomores or younger. Not only that, the young players are really good. This senior class may not see much action outside of exhibition matches, but they believe it is a testament to the program, and they look forward to leaving a positive legacy.

“I've been a bench warmer for all four years, but all the guys are really cool,” senior Alec Dukes said. “It's a very supportive culture, and it's just a lot of fun.”

Senior Kieran Probert is wrapping up his athletic career at Sussex Academy with tennis, and he thinks it is rather fitting.

“I get to go do cross country and get out of my comfort zone,” he said. “I get to swim, maybe something I'm better at but definitely want to keep improving at. And then finally tennis probably is my most fun sport.”

Sussex Academy’s high hopes are built from their 10-win season last year, the influx of young talent and the dynamics of the team.

“The culture in general is very supportive, very team-based,” Probert said. “We are congratulating each other for hitting a great shot, and you don't really get that in any other sport.”