Numbers Up - Good For Lowell Tennis in 2026 and Beyond
Evan Dressander during a match last year.
Justin Scott
8/30/2026
Lowell boys tennis head coach Chris Phillips has spent the past several years trying to build participation within the program. This fall, that work is beginning to show.
For the first time in several years, the Red Arrows will field a junior varsity team, giving Lowell additional opportunities to develop players throughout the season.
“We’re really excited this year to have a JV team again,” Phillips said. “It’s been a few years since we’ve had one. The number of boys participating is coming up, and that’s what I’ve been working on for a while now.”
Lowell expects to have approximately nine players on the JV roster.
The addition also brings a new coach into the program. John Sukup will lead the junior varsity team after previously spending several years coaching at Forest Hills Northern.
“John is a very knowledgeable coach and comes to us with many years of experience at Forest Hills Northern,” Phillips said. “I’m excited to have him onboard.”
At the varsity level, Lowell returns a number of players from last season, including three seniors who will provide experience at the top of the lineup.
Riley Haynes, Eli Vangroningen and Evan Dressander make up the Red Arrows’ senior class this fall.
Phillips has also been encouraged by the work several players put in during the offseason.
“Many of the guys have done offseason work and it shows,” Phillips said.
Much of Lowell’s varsity lineup is beginning to take shape, although there is still competition for spots as the season gets underway. One of the primary battles remains at No. 4 doubles, where several players are still competing for the position.
“We’re still trying to narrow down who will be playing the fourth doubles position, but there’s a few guys in the hunt,” Phillips said.
While the Red Arrows will look for continued improvement at the varsity level, the return of a JV team may be one of the most important developments for the program long term.
More players means more opportunities for younger athletes to gain match experience and gives Lowell a larger group to develop for future varsity seasons.
