The Cape Fear Christian Academy girls tennis team is pictured above. From left are Anna Jackson, Ella Butts, Karson Hamilton, Ella John Dupree. Coach Page Jackson, Lily Kate Dupree. Nina Sauer, Aubrey Jackson and Savannah Autry. (Dunn Area Sports Photo/Barbara Myatt)

The Oakwood School of Greenville proved deserving of its No. 1 seeding in the North Carolina Independent School Athletic Association girls tennis playoffs on Saturday with a 5-1 win over Cape Fear Christian Academy in the state title match at Faith Christian School of Rocky Mount.

“For the most part, we played really well, but Oakwood was two-time defending champions for a reason,” said Eagles coach Page Jackson. “They were a more experienced team with four seniors and it showed.

“While it was disappointing, it was a lot of fun. Our girls gave 100 percent and I couldn’t be more proud of them. The support this team received from family, friends and CFCA was amazing.”

Anna Jackson and Savannah Autry got the Eagles’ point with an 8-6 win in the No. 3 doubles. Karson Hamilton was leading her match in the No. 4 singles, 6-4, 5-2, when play concluded. Anna Jackson led 2-1 in the second set at No. 5 after a 7-6 loss in the first set.

CFCA finished the season 14-2. Oakwood was 12-2.

Anna Jackson, Aubrey Jackson and Sauer are seniors. Aubrey Jackson played No. 2 and Sauer was No. 3.

Charlotte Aldredge, Ella Butts and Lily Kate Dupree gained experience in exhibitions this season.

“With work, we have a chance at getting back next year,” Jackson said.

The Eagles board the bus for the state championship match.
(Photo/John Dupree)

Ella John Dupree makes a return in the No. 1 singles.
(Photo/John Dupree)

Aubrey Jackson battled in the No. 2 singles for CFCA.
(Photo/John Dupree)

Karson Hamilton was leading in the No. 4 singles when the match ended.
(Photo/John Dupree)

Nina Sauer makes a return in the state final at Faith Christian.
(Photo/John Dupree)

Savannah Autry is among the returning players for the Eagles.
(Photo/John Dupree)