The South Whidbey High School doubles team of senior Mary Zisette and junior Alison Papritz dropped a pair of marathon matches in the bi-district tournament Friday, May 17, at the Redmond Tennis Center.

The Falcons were eliminated with the losses and missed qualifying for state, where they placed second last spring.

“Alison and Mary played some of their best tennis on Saturday, but the competition was extremely competitive,” coach Karyle Kramer said.

Zisette and Papritz opened play by losing a three-hour match 7-5, 5-7, 7-5 to the eventual bi-district champions from University Prep.

“The first game of the match went to seven deuces, and that reflects how even the entire match was,” Kramer said.

After a 45-minute break, the South Whidbey pair fell in another tight, long match. Their opponents from Forest Ridge eked out the two-and-a-half hour contest 6-7(5-7), 6-3, 6-4.

“Both girls gave it all they had,” Kramer said. “They were mentally and physically exhausted at the end. I could not have asked for more from them.

“They stayed classy, competitive and focused for both matches. I’m beyond proud.”

Zisette finished her career as a four-time district doubles champion, bi-district champion and state runner-up.

“Most importantly, she represented South Whidbey High School well all of her career, and she walked off the court disappointed but with her head held high,” Kramer said. “Strong finish.”