Loyd Star senior Gavin Thomas signed a letter-of-intent Thursday morning to continue his tennis career next season at Southwest Mississippi Community College. Seated with Thomas is his mother Dana Boyte.

Standing are Brookhill tennis pro Levi Patton and Loyd Star tennis coach Meredith Miller. Thomas paired with Tessa Smith in mixed doubles to win the Region 6-1A/2A region title in 2019. The duo won one match at the state tournament before being eliminated. Southwest resurrected their tennis program last year after not having a program for several years.

The Bears are coached by Joyce Mabry and counted Wesson alum Skyler Rasberry on their team in 2019.

“Southwest is getting an outstanding player and a great competitor,” said Loyd Star tennis coach Meredith Miller. “He has the will to win and a very hard and consistent forehand. In doubles Gavin is great at the net and awesome at putting the ball away. I am so excited that he gets to continue to improve his skills at Southwest.”