CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Kirkwood High senior tennis player Kelton Cantrell was named to the class 2A Tennessee Sports Writers Association All-State team on Thursday following a dominate singles campaign during the 2025 season.

“Earning an all-state selection means so much to me,” Cantrell told Clarksville Now. “It’s the result of constant training every day and dedication to the game. Being recognized for this selection makes me truly happy, because I never would have believed I could reach this level in tennis.”

Cantrell was a state semifinalist in class 2A singles, winning one match after making it to the state tournament, before falling one match short of the state championship. The senior also made the class 2A singles state tournament in 2024, where he was a state quarterfinalist. Cantrell is the first state qualifier for any sport in Kirkwood High athletics history.

“Having any athlete on my team receive this honor is amazing. Having Kelton receive it is something that seems inevitable,” said Kirkwood High head boys’ tennis coach Robert Foy. “The guy trains like a madman, loves the sport, and never stops competing. I’m very proud of him and can’t wait to see what else is in store for him as he continues his tennis journey.”

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