Redmond High boys tennis coach Stephen Thornsberry notes that he has a promising team with expectations to finish in the top three in 3A KingCo.

Top returners for the Mustangs (2-4 in league, 3-4 overall at press time) are seniors Simon Liu (No. 1 singles), Van Kim (No. 3 singles), Noah Yeo (No. 4 singles) and Dalai Chaadra (No. 1 doubles).

Lefty Liu possesses a devastating cross-court backhand, Thornsberry said. “His calm during intense matches serves as a model for other players,” the coach added, noting that Liu is quiet, steady and a strong leader.

Freshman Aaron Hong is a solid addition to the lineup and has been battling Liu for the No. 1 position.

“(He’s) giving us firepower in the singles position while showing great promise for the Mustangs’ future,” the coach said.

The “rock-steady” duo of Kim and Yeo like to keep their rackets in action even after a rigorous practice, and Chaadra is a stellar competitor who has given the team flexibility to try different doubles combinations.