Bull Dogs’ Dynamic Duo Ends Strong Season at State Semis

The Columbus North Bull Dogs girls tennis team saw its strong postseason run conclude at the IHSAA State Doubles Finals over the weekend. The senior-junior combo of Annabelle Sun and Nino Akhalaya fell in the semifinals against a polished Fort Wayne Carroll squad, 6-0, 6-3, indoors at the UIndy Tennis Center.

Rain pushed the match off the courts at Park Tudor, but the intensity under the roof didn’t let up. The Chargers’ top tandem entered with an undefeated record, showcasing aggressive net play and laser-focused returns that tested the Bull Dogs from the opening serve. Despite falling behind early, Sun and Akhalaya rallied in the second set with improved court positioning and deeper shot selection, but Carroll continued to pressure, never letting momentum shift fully.

The Bull Dogs’ duo wraps up the season with an 18-7 record and plenty of pride after qualifying as one of the final four teams left in the doubles bracket. With Sun closing out her varsity career and Akhalaya set to return next season, Columbus North’s net gains in 2025 could be even stronger.