June 22, 202 Submitted By Notre Dame Academy (Hingham)
Notre Dame Academy’s varsity tennis team made school history on Saturday, June 13, capturing the MIAA Division 2 State Championship with a commanding 4-1 victory over Bedford High School at MIT. The top-seeded Cougars finished the season with an outstanding 19-1 record and secured the first state championship in program history.
The championship match showcased the depth and determination that defined NDA’s season. At first singles, Sophia Lirio ’28 of Abington delivered a dominant performance, earning a 6-0, 6-1 victory. A steady presence throughout the season, Lirio combined powerful shot-making with exceptional composure, consistently rising to the occasion in key moments.
The Cougars continued to build momentum as Skye Bunge ’27 of Cohasset earned a 6-3, 6-2 win at third singles. In doubles play, the first doubles team of Clara Healey ’26 (Hanover) and Vivienne La Grassa ’26 (Norwell) battled to a 7-5, 6-1 victory, while Caroline Kessler ’26 (Milton) and Christi Schwartz ’28 (Duxbury) clinched the state title with a decisive 6-2, 6-4 win at second doubles.
“This championship speaks to the hard work and perseverance our student-athletes have shown throughout the season,” said NDA President Annemarie Lynch Kenneally. “The team embraced every challenge and showed what it means to compete with heart.”
The victory was especially meaningful for seniors Clara Healey (Hanover), Caroline Kessler (Milton), Vivienne La Grassa (Norwell), and Karen Li (Milton), who completed their NDA tennis careers as state champions. Their leadership and dedication helped establish a culture of excellence that will inspire future generations of NDA tennis players.
Throughout the season, the Cougars worked to build a team culture rooted in resilience and grit. Time and again, they rose to meet tough competition while remaining focused on their shared goal of bringing a state championship home to NDA.
Notre Dame Academy extends congratulations and gratitude to the coaching staff for their tireless dedication. Their leadership helped make this impressive achievement possible.