BY SAPNA PATHAK

The consistency as a Class L powerhouse, the multiple state championships, the countless players who’ve gone on to strong college careers – none of it matters.

No, it’s of no concern to Dave Page. But that’s because Page has a different definition of success.

“My philosophy is to get better every day and see where that leads you,” said Page, head coach of Concord High’s boys tennis team. “You can have a successful season without a record that others would think shows it. If there’s improvement there, then that’s success.”

Despite losing four of its top six players to graduation, Concord looks to repeat as champion behind a combination of young players and seniors who are adapting to new leadership demands.

Graduated seniors include Max Berger at No. 1, Andrew Laflam at No. 2, Billy Skarinka at No. 3 and Braydin Clouthier at No. 6.

“Being the defending champs, you know people are shooting for you every time,” said Page. “I don’t think they’ll have much sympathy about us losing four out of our top six guys from last year.”

Senior Will Hartigan will step into the top spot. The nationally ranked squash player brings solid athletic ability to the team. A top-six player last year, Alex Pince will be the Crimson Tide’s No. 2 singles player, while returner Ed Lee will be the third seed.

Austin Scott moves to the No. 4 slot after finishing last season in the 10th spot; senior Mason Caccia is Page’s No. 5 player; and Scott Levick rounds out the squad’s top six.

Page pointed to West as “having the best team in the state.” He also praised Salem and Keene’s strong programs, and mentioned Exeter among the toughest competition.

In their first match, on Wednesday, April 11, the Crimson Tide handed Bishop Guertin of Nashua an 8-1 loss.

“We graduated some strong personalities, and we did feel a void the first couple of days,” said Page. “But the seniors know it’s their last chance, and things could be wide open to a degree when it comes to who could win the state title.”