Smackover's Taylor Darden was coming off shoulder surgery when the tennis season began. If she had any limitations physically, they didn't show on the court. The senior won her third 3A 8 singles championship and advanced in the 3A State Tournament.
Darden was named as a finalist for Fall Sports Female Athlete of the Year.
Darden went 15-2 on the season, including a loss in the second round of the state tournament.
Smackover coach Candy Phillips couldn't be reached for comment at the end of the season.
During the season Phillips said, "She is a competitive player. I think she's stronger this year. She's done a great job with her shoulder recovery and her rehab. She's hitting it good. Her footwork has improved this year and just her overall knowledge of the game comes with that experience. Her strength from having the experience last year and the physical therapy from her shoulder has made all the difference for her."
The four-sport athlete also competed for the Lady Bucks in cheerleading during the fall semester. Darden signed to play tennis at South Arkansas College.
The Scholar Athlete Awards Banquet will be held in the spring. The date hasn't been announced.