For the third time in four seasons, and the second year in a row, the Great Falls CMR boys tennis team is the Class AA state champion.
The Rustlers claimed the title this past Saturday in Bozeman, becoming the first team in 26 years at CMR to win back-to-back state championships. It also marks the first time in school history that the boys tennis team has won three titles in a four-year span.
“It’s just an incredible thing to be part of,” said senior Brady Pike during the team’s celebration Tuesday at the CMR Fieldhouse. “Winning one state championship is already amazing—getting two is just unbelievable.”
Junior Eli Crist, who partnered with Pike in doubles, added, “This tennis team is the best. We’ve shown how far hard work and determination can take you. Winning three out of four years is just ridiculous.”
Sophomore Howard Daniel, who placed third in singles at state, said, “It was close with some teams at first, but we pulled away in the end. We really earned it.”
Head coach Byron Boyd praised his team’s dedication and unity.
“They put in the work during the offseason,” Boyd said. “They bought into the program completely. I told them on the first day of practice this was the goal.”
Pike and Crist finished second in the doubles bracket but played a crucial role in securing the overall team title.
“I wasn’t sure I’d play this season,” Pike admitted. “But I sat down with Coach Boyd and he told me what our chances were. I said, ‘I’m all in.’”
Crist noted that their doubles points helped eliminate a major threat. “Those points right there knocked Billings West out of the team title race,” he said.
Looking ahead, all three players believe the team’s success is far from over.
“We’re only graduating a couple of players, including me,” Pike said. “I think this run is going to continue.”
Crist added, “Three [titles in a row] is very possible. That’s my senior year next, and I’m telling everyone—we can do it. I believe it.”
Daniel echoed that sentiment. “I think three, even four, are possible. I hope we can make it happen.”
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