Western Albemarle’s win in the VHSL state finals was a fantastic finish to a dominating season, but the state final match also provided a chance for redemption for the Warriors’ Jamie Thomas, Ben Fitts and Joey Manilla.

Gabe Kosowitz battled through footwork problems to pick up a three-set victory at No. 2 singles, clinching a 5-0 victory for the Warriors in the Group AA boys tennis team semifinals over Harrisonburg. Western will face Salem this morning at 9 a.m. the finals with the chance to win its second straight state title.

In Sterling, Western Albemarle sophomore Joey Manilla made sure his team would get the most out of a trip to southwest Virginia next week.

The Western Albemarle boys tennis team is confident, and with good reason. The Warriors coasted through the Jefferson District and carry an unbeaten record (19-0) into the Region II finals, which will be held today at Western Albemarle.