The 2009 DHS boys’ tennis squad looks to be a made-over unit this year, as Coach John Bunar welcomed a host of new players with the skill, athleticism and drive to make an immediate impact.

“Not since the mid ‘90s have I seen a freshmen group with the size and ability of this year’s group,” said the veteran coach.

Leading the new recruits will be returning varsity veterans: seniors Connor Dunphy and TJ Scholberg, as well as #1 singles player sophomore Brayden Minahan.

Bunar’s lineup looks set for the beginning of the season, with the important #1 slot being handled by Minahan.

“Brayden is one in a long line of great Duxbury #1 singles players. As much as his skill leads us in competition, his leadership during practice is just as valuable,” says Bunar.”

The Dragons will have a surprise entry in the #2 singles slot, as freshman Peter Muncey made the difficult trek up the ladder. Muncey won the position with an all-court style of play, backed by a tenacious competitive attitude.

At third singles, the Dragons will look to sophomore Alex Holopainen, whose strokes give him the potential to be very good. “I’m looking forward to seeing him improve with experience,” said his coach.

The Dragons have some experience at #1 doubles, as the tandem of captains Scholberg and Dunphy will man this important post. Scholberg’s experience and competitiveness combined with Dunphy’s power makes #1 doubles a team strength.

Senior TJ Cameron and junior Stephen Day got the nod to start the season at #2 doubles, as Bunar will rely on the duo to use their steady play to produce wins.

“I went with Stephen and TJ at this spot because I trust they will compete hard and work together to win.”

Players ready to step in and make an impact should the starters run into trouble include: seniors Kevin Dame, Mike Larkin, and Pat Murphy, along with juniors Peter Tenaglia, and Mike Latorre. Sophomores Ben Startzell, Pat Mahoney, Dan Fiset and Andrew Pierce will also compete for playing time with the likes of freshmen Connor O’Keefe, Erik Shneider and Dale Day.

“My doubles reserves are deeper than ever this season,” said Bunar. “The O’Keefe kid is pretty much ready now, and Ben Startzell will be a doubles monster by mid-season. Most of my other players would be first doubles starters on most teams.”

While Bunar likes what he has on his roster, he knows Hingham will be the team to beat in the Patriot League.

“I think the league title will be tough for us this year. Hingham returns six of the seven starters from last year’s Sectional finals team. They very well may be the best team in the state. Scituate will also be a challenge for us in league play,” said Bunar. “The other big match on the schedule will be a non-league encounter with South Shore League foe Norwell High School. With all the inexperience we will be putting on the court, our best play will be towards the end of the season. I see us as being very competitive with any team in the state by the time the tournament rolls around.”

There will be little rest for the Dragons this week, as they opened on Monday in Norwell, and hit the road again on Wednesday when they travel to Sandwich for a 3:30 p.m. match with the Blue Knights. On Friday they take on Hingham in their first Patriot League encounter.