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It was Philip Beitler’s goal from the very beginning, after all, that’s why he put in all of that work this past off-season. The junior was determined to qualify for the State Tennis Tournament, anything that happened after that was, as they say, just gravy.

After finishing second at the Section 7AA individual tournament, Beitler reached his goal. Next up, a whole new set of challenges at the state tourney.

Last Wednesday, Beitler faced hurdle number one in Charlie Seltzer of Edina. Ranked number three in state, Seltzer, who lost in the semifinals last season at the state tournament, had the advantage.

“Right at first, I was a little nervous,” remarked Beitler. “Towards the end I settled down a little bit but I think he did a good job taking advantage of that.”

Aided by a powerful forehand, Seltzer jumped out of the gates by taking the first game before Beitler battled back with two straight wins. Early on, Seltzer struggled with his accuracy.

“His forehand was really powerful but it depended on how accurate he was. Early on, he was missing a lot of shots,” said Beitler.

That would change as Seltzer found his groove, taking the next three games to go up 4-2. Despite two strong backhand winners by Beitler to pull to 4-3, Seltzer went onto take the first set 6-3.

The senior continued to get stronger as the game got longer. Seltzer started off the second set with a flurry of shots pinning Beitler back on his heels. Seltzer never looked back, taking the second set and the match 6-3, 6-1, eliminating Beitler from the tournament. Meanwhile, Seltzer went on to lose in the finals.

“I thought I played really well. I was a tough opponent and the points went his way down the stretch,” remarked Beitler. “He forced me to use my backhand a lot and moved me around pretty good.”

Still, Beitler plans for the experience to go along way. If working hard the offseason got him to state, how far will this upcoming offseason training program take him?

“It just makes me hungrier,” said Beitler. “I’m going to work really hard with my tennis coach and get back there. I’m already really excited about next year.”

State Tennis Tournament

“AA” Team Results:

Team title-

Edina def. Orono 5-2

“AA” Individual Results:

First Round-

Seltzer (Edina) def.

Beitler (CL) 6-3, 6-1

Finals-

Edlefsen (Eden Prairie) def.

Seltzer (Edina) 6-3, 6-3

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