Despite the fact that the Edenton Aces lost four of their top six players in 2007 to graduation, they still had success on the courts this year, thanks in large part to seniors Danny Brusko and Chris Edmundson.

"We had a lot of holes to fill this year," Hornthal said. "When you lose your No. 1, 2, 3 and 6 players, that makes it kind of tough. These guys had to step up, and they did."

Justin Falls/Daily Advance (ENLARGE)

Edenton seniors Chris Edmundson (left) and Danny Brusko are the 2008 Daily Advance Boys Tennis Co-Players of the Year.

The duo took different paths to the top spots on the Edenton roster. Edmundson was consistently among the top players, but Brusko worked his way up from lower in the ranks.

"Chris played up in the lineup all four years," Hornthal said. "Danny had to work a little harder. By the time they got to this year, they were senior co-captains."

The pair split time at No. 1 and 2 singles this year after the losses from the 2007 team. Though both met with some success, the toughness of the Aces' schedule kept them from breaking into 20-win territory.

"When you play No. 1 and 2, that means you're going to run up against players like (First Flight's) William (Gray) and Taylor (Sullivan)," Hornthal said. "You're going to get everybody's best shot."

As a doubles team, Edmundson and Brusko were 19-6, advancing to the second round of the 2A East Regional, falling to eventual runners-up Ethan Caudell and Bradley Walters of St. Pauls,

Because of the tough schedule, the team started the season slow. At one point, the Aces were 2-6, but it was the leadership of Brusko and Edmundson that helped the team carry through to a second-place finish in the Northeastern Coastal Conference.

"We played a lot of teams who were just flat out better than we were," Hornthal said. "First Flight, Tarboro and Rocky Mount were some of these teams. These guys always gave a good effort and helped the younger guys realize that it's important that you go out and give your best effort."

Co-Players of the Year:

Chris Edmundson Edenton

Danny Brusko EdentonAll-Area Team

David Daffron Currituck

Chip Jennings Northeastern

Brandon Hatcher Northeastern

Stefan Kappe Edenton

Tyler Edmundson Edenton