By Stephen Dawkins | Assistant Managing Editor

Jemison’s boys tennis team finished third in the Class 4A state tournament last week, matching the program’s best performance in Coach Benton Morton’s 10 years.

JHS also finished third in the state at the 2007 tournament.

The Panthers finished ninth in 2009 and sixth in 2010, and posted last week’s impressive finish because of the performances of both a dependable group of seniors and younger players that will carry the team in the future.

“It was amazing to make it to state,” Coach Benton Morton said. “We will lose five seniors this year: Cole Thompson, Drew Posey, Jordan Jones, Taylor Long and Nick Long.

“They have been great players and leaders for this team. We have a great bunch of sophomores and freshmen to fill their shoes.”

Jake Long was the state runner up in the No. 6 singles position, and teammate Andrew Morton made it to the semifinals.

Long and Morton also reached the semifinals as the No. 2 doubles team.

Thompson and Nick Long reached the semifinals in the No. 3 doubles position.

The Panthers finished 14-4 overall, with losses coming against Oneonta (who finished No. 2 in Class 4A), St. James (No. 4 in 4A) and Pelham (No. 2 in 6A).