As another spring tennis season comes to a close, the Woodland Regional High School girls tennis team is anchored by three seniors whose impact stretches far beyond the court. Captains Laura DeGennaro, Ava Naclerio, and Abigail Raffone have been the backbone of the program, each dedicating four years to building both their game and the culture of the team. From nervous freshmen picking up their first varsity rackets to confident leaders inspiring their teammates, the trio has helped shape a legacy of commitment, resilience, and camaraderie.
Together, the trio has not only competed at a high level but has also cultivated a supportive and inclusive team atmosphere. Whether they were leading warm-ups, strategizing doubles pairings, or offering guidance during tough matches, their presence has been a constant source of strength.
“To me being team captain means making sure everyone is well taken care of and being able to come together as a team and not just treating each other as teammates but also as friends,” said Raffone.
Naclerio agreed with Raffone.
“Making sure everyone is involved and feels supported,” said Naclerio “If you want to stay after practice one day and hit with us we are here for that and also just spending time with us in other ways than just captains.”
Now, with four seasons of experience behind them, the three captains are not only leaving behind a strong record but also a legacy of leadership. As they prepare to pass the torch, they reflected on what it takes to grow into the role of a team leader—and shared advice for the younger players who dream of becoming captains themselves.
“Put yourself out there, try to speak to the younger teammates and make yourself known on the team,” said DeGennaro.
“Be supportive, don’t pull people down, you’re all part of the same team, you all have the same goals. We all want to win. Work hard, practice on your own, and just try to become the best player you can be,” added Naclerio.
As their final season winds down, DeGennaro, Naclerio, and Raffone also took a moment to reflect on their lasting impact. More than records or rankings, they each hope to leave behind something deeper, a standard of leadership and character that future Woodland players can look up to.
“I want to be remembered as someone everyone can talk to and someone that everyone can rely on for motivation or help,” shared DeGennaro.
“I want to be remembered as a role model, I want to be someone they can look up to and remembered as someone who made their tennis experience a little more positive,” commented Naclerio.
“I want to be remembered as someone that they can talk to and be friends with, or if they ever want to practice when we are home in the summer I would totally want them to reach out. I want them to think of me as someone who is a role model, not someone they don’t want to try to be,” reflected Raffone.
As they step off the courts for the final time in black and gold, DeGennaro, Naclerio, and Raffone leave behind far more than wins, they leave behind a standard. Their leadership, friendship, and dedication have shaped a culture that will live on in every future Hawk who picks up a racket. And while their final season may be coming to a close, the mark they’ve made on Woodland tennis is one that won’t fade with the scoreboard.
