Decorah Boys Tennis Advances to State for Fifth Straight Year

Our Driftless region deserves more than postcards — it deserves a watchdog. Be that support. DECORAH — The Decorah boys tennis team secured its fifth consecutive trip to the state team tournament Monday with victories over Clear Lake and Applington-Parkersburg in Class 1A state qualifying competition. Decorah opened the day with a 5-0 win over Clear Lake. Under Iowa high school postseason rules, matches are suspended once the team result is decided. The Vikings set the tone early by sweeping all three doubles matches before carrying the momentum into singles play. Tristan Hunter earned a quick win at No. 2 singles, while Tyler Shaw added another victory at No. 4 singles to clinch the match. Decorah then faced Applington-Parkersburg in the qualifying final and again started strong in doubles competition. The Vikings won at No. 1 and No. 2 doubles to take an early advantage, while the No. 3 doubles team battled before falling short, sending Decorah into singles play with a 2-1 lead. Hunter again delivered, winning 6-0, 6-0 at No. 2 singles. Elliot Berland and Shaw followed with aggressive play and straight-set victories to secure the team's 5-1 win and secure Decorah's ticket to state. According to the coaching staff, senior Keaton Nalean-Carlson and sophomore Logan Nalean-Carlson were also on pace for victories before matches were halted. Junior Jack Hammel rebounded after dropping his first set and led 3-1 in the second set when play stopped. Decorah coach Anderson said the team responded well despite a disappointing performance at Saturday's individual qualifying tournament. "This is one of the most memorable days in my five years of coaching, watching these kids come back from a rough day Saturday and win," Anderson said. The Vikings have now reached the Class 1A state final eight in five consecutive seasons. Team members pictured were Oskar Swanson, Lawrence Christman, Hammel, Shaw, Hunter, Berland, Keaton Nalean-Carlson, Logan Nalean-Carlson and Cohen Berland. Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.