WAYCROSS, GA - The Ware County Lady Gators Tennis Team opened postseason play in dominant fashion on Monday, April 20, 2026, defeating Flowery Branch 3-0 in the first round of the GHSA AAAA State Playoffs at home.
Ware County wasted no time setting the tone, securing three straight match victories to clinch the team win and punch their ticket to the second round.
At first singles, Bailey Denton continued her outstanding season with a strong and controlled performance, earning a 6-2, 6-3 victory. Denton dictated play from the baseline and maintained consistency throughout both sets.
At third singles, Paislee Wildes overcame a slow start in a tightly contested opening set. After edging out a 7-6 first-set win, Wildes found her rhythm and dominated the second set 6-0 to secure the second point for the Lady Gators.
The decisive third point came from first doubles, where the duo of Kayleigh LeMay and Gracie Vickers delivered an impressive performance. The pair controlled the match from start to finish, winning convincingly 6-2, 6-2.
Additional strong efforts came from Elly Blackrick at second singles and the doubles team of Addie Bishop and Ella Beth Cox, who were both in competitive matches before play was halted once Ware County clinched the victory.
With the win, the Lady Gators advance to the second round of the GHSA AAAA State Tournament, continuing an already historic season for the program.
Up Next:
Details for the second round of the GHSA AAAA Girls Tennis State Tournament will be announced later this week.
