OKEECHOBEE- Okeechobee High School’s girls tennis team earned a district championship on April 14, with the boys earning runner-up honors.

It’s the first district championship for the girls since 2006.

Now,  Peyton Johnson is going on to represent Okeechobee in the state boys' singles tournament, and Isabella Derigo will represent OHS in the girls' singles tournament. Isabella will also be teaming up with Kiersten Sales to represent the school in the state doubles tournament.

“We are really excited as a team because we went head to head with Martin County and the girls beat them on their own courts,” said OHS tennis coach Celine Treamer. “I think I am most proud of the fact that they did it as a team. The boys and girls teams are one big team that help one another succeed. They welcome all levels and have fun playing tennis with everyone on the team no matter their ability level. “

The last time Okeechobee made the districts in 2019 the team struggled to keep stride with the level of competition in the postseason. They opened their 2020 season with a renewed focus to make another run towards a district title, but COVID-19 shutdown the season early.

“They were crushed when they could not finish their season and show the coast what Okeechobee could do,” explained Treamer. “That definitely empowered the players to work hard and show the district they were there to play and win. Chris Cobb led everyone by motivating the team and telling them Chobee was the team to beat. “

The Brahmans will compete in the state tournament in Orlando starting on April 26.