Belton New Tech sees new faces on tennis team

July 24, 2025

By Clay Whittington

The Belton Journal

Jordan Wedemeyer knows change has arrived, and he is excited.

For the past four years, Belton New Tech’s head tennis coach has primarily overseen the same group of players, watching some grow with the program, which is still in its infancy.

During the spring, however, the first crop of senior Dragons and Lady Dragons graduated, departing after helping guide the squad to its most successful season.

Now, with the season opener just days away, a number of new faces are filling the voids, and while the scenario provides challenges, Wedemeyer is embracing the opportunity.

“This is definitely an exciting time,” he said. “The nice thing about having new kids on varsity is that you get a whole new set of personalities, skills and abilities. So, it is up to me to figure out who is better at doubles, who is better at singles and where everyone fits within the team.

“I have to develop a whole new outlook on what the team is capable of and how to use everyone to the best of their abilities.”

One year ago, New Tech captured its first victory on the court en route to finishing fifth in the final District 25-4A standings with a 3-4 record, leaving it one spot shy of advancing to the playoffs.

The goal this season is to exceed the showing and reach the postseason, but there is little time to prepare.

The Dragons and Lady Dragons began practicing Wednesday with the first match set for July 31, when they travel to Waco University for a 9 a.m. start.

One week later, on Aug. 7, New Tech opens district play by facing Little River Academy in the first of eight league matches.

“We are starting district play earlier than we ever have before,” Wedemeyer said. “We have nine schools in the district, and the schedule has to be done by the first week of October. So, we have to start before the kids are even in school.

“So, that is going to be a challenge in itself, because not all the kids will be back from vacations and stuff by then. That is just part of it, though, and we're going to have to do the best we can and hop for the best."

District competition continues Aug. 14, when New Tech travels to Liberty Hill Legacy Ranch. Burnet, Jarrell, Lago Vista, Marble Falls, Salado and Cameron Yoe complete the league.

Academy emerged with last season's district champiionship before reaching the third round of the playoffs.

"This goal is to always aspire for the playoffs," he said. "I think we will be really solid on the guy's side this year, and if a few of the girls step up, then I think we have a really great chance. I know we have to face some tough schools, but a lot of those teams are kind of in the same boat as us.

"Last year was just phenomenal, so we are definitely looking to build on that success and punch our way into the postseason."