Salina ? Free State High’s girls’ tennis team opened its season with a second place finish at the Junction City Invitational on Saturday, led by senior Emily Wang, who won the No. 1 singles title. Salina Central won the overall title, beating the Firebirds by five points.

Wang, the defending state champ, beat Salina Central’s Stephanie Smith, 8-4 in the finals, going 4-0 on the day.

“This was a great way to start the season, especially for Wang, who picked up a big win in the final against Smith from Salina Central, who will be the favorite to win 5A state,” said FSHS coach Jon Renberger.

The No. 1 doubles team of seniors Emily Loewen and Lacey Luina went 3-1, taking third place. No. 2 singles player Rachel Koch, who also was 3-1, took third. The No. 2 doubles team of Ellie Ott and Marisa Steinbach, placed fifth at 2-2.