Local tennis players start strong at Holland Open

Dennis R.J. Geppert/The Holland Sentinel
Aaron Niemiec returns a volley during his
match at the Holland Open Monday morning.

By LEO MARTONOSI
The Holland Sentinel
Posted Jun 30, 2008 @ 11:31 PM
Holland, MI —

Three of the top four seeded players in boys 18 singles at the Holland Open are from Holland.

The only one that isn’t is top-seeded Andrew Kremkow of Hudsonville. Aaron Niemiec, a senior at Zeeland East, who is seeded second, has beaten Kremkow.

“It’s kind of weird how they do (the draw),” said Niemiec, a three-time all-conference player for the Chix.

“Andrew probably played in more USTL (United State Tennis Lawn) tournaments,” said Holland Open Director Lissa Gilmore of the seeding.

Two West Ottawa seniors — Kyle Masteller and Ryne DuShane — were seeded third and fourth, respectively.

Masteller played one position behind Dushane this past school year for the Panthers.
“I was third singles, and Ryne played second singles,” Masteller said. “Hopefully, I can beat him out next year for No. 1 singles.”

Niemiec has been the Chix No. 1 singles player the past three seasons.

“I love playing against the other school’s best player,” Niemiec said. “I think it brings out the best in me.”

Niemiec, 17, lost in the boys 16 finals a year ago at the Holland Open.

“This is my fourth Holland Open, which I’ve never won,” Niemiec said. “I just want to take it one match at a time and play up to my potential.”

Niemiec, who had a first-round bye and a win, will participate in doubles with Masteller.
“It will be fun to team up with Kyle,” Niemiec said. “It’s good match experience. It will be a good opportunity to work on volleys and learning good skills.”

Boys play continues and girls play begins today.