There’s no denying that the Turlock High girls tennis players are going to be favored to win every time they step onto a court, especially when it comes to Central California Conference play.

Lately, they have dominated the CCC.

And that statement will likely remain when the 2010 season gets going. The Bulldogs welcome back their top player in senior Elise Cusenza, who’s been the No. 1 player since her freshman season. The No. 2 and 3 spots are held by senior Kaitlyn Ireland and junior Maecie Ireland.

Coach Juan Alaniz, in his third season, said that this year’s group is a closer when it’s come to each player’s skill level.

With only two seniors on the roster, the Bulldogs appear to be one of the top teams for at least another year or two. Turlock finished 2009 with back-to-back CCC titles and a 24-0 record.

In other words, the Bulldogs are the team to beat. Merced High has also proven to be a strong program, though the Bears did lose their top two players to graduation.

Pitman High will be “working toward becoming competitive” as the season progresses, coach Jeff Hayes said. But he also added that the Pride “don’t have a great deal of depth.” Some of the team’s standouts include No. 1 Brittney Leon, No. 2 Mallorie Nordahl and No. 3 Emily Nelson.

To contact Chhun Sun, e-mail csun@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2041.