JEFFERSON TWP — Knoch High School girls tennis dropped to Class AA four years ago.

The program has risen to new heights since — and seems to be staying there.

Nance Conlon is in her seventh year as the Knights' head coach and recalls the years the team was in Class AAA.

“We just didn't fare well against those bigger schools,” she admitted. “We'd win here and there, but we couldn't contend for a section title or anything.”

Since being slotted into Class AA, Knoch still doesn't contend.

It dominates.

Not only are the Knights three-time defending section champions — well on their way to a fourth — the program has not lost a regular season match since playing at the Class AA level.

Through its first five section matches this year, Knoch dropped a total of three games. Singles players Laura Greb, Brooke Bauer and Ally Bauer are all unbeaten in the regular season.

“When we were moved to Class AA, we also had club players in our program for the first time,” Conlon said. “Players of that caliber naturally elevate the level of play.”

Elle Santora was the No. 1 singles player for Knoch's 2016 section champion team. That squad got knocked out in the first round of the WPIAL playoffs .

Santora transferred to Shady Side Academy, but Greb and Brooke Bauer joined the team as freshmen in 2017.

Greb has gone on to win three consecutive WPIAL AA singles titles. She defeated teammate Brooke Bauer in the championship match this season. Both will be playing in the PIAA Championships and are in opposite brackets.

“It wouldn't surprise me if those two meet for the state title,” Conlon said. “They've definitely raised the bar on this team.”

Libby Conlon and Ally Bauer recently won the section doubles title and will play in the WPIAL doubles tourney this week.

Libby played doubles with Alex Jaksec last year. Jaksec is now playing tennis at La Roche College. Libby's doubles partner for much of this season has been fellow team captain and senior Jadyn Brown.

“Jadyn hurt her ankle and was out for a while,” Libby said. “Danielle Barnes stepped in for her and we clicked just fine.

“There is an expectation here. I think Laura and Brooke have raised the bar. They're always cheering and supporting the rest of the team.”

Brown agreed.

“We're all dedicated to each other,” she said. “We just naturally want to work harder. We'll go hit balls together on our own time, just to improve our games.”

Ally Bauer is a freshman and Brooke's younger sister.

“I've been playing since I was 8 years old,” Ally said. “Following Brooke ... There's a little bit of pressure there, I guess, but I want to get to her level.

“My goal is to play for championships like she's doing. I want to play Division I (college) tennis down the road like Laura and Brooke will wind up doing.”

Knoch lost the WPIAL AA team championship match to Sewickley Academy in both of the past two years. Coach Conlon said she rotates six players at No. 2 doubles, with Caroline Ejzak and Riley Wynn teaming up there often.

“As good as Laura and Brooke have been, it takes a team, to win,” Coach Conlon said. “Their skill level has had a trickle-down affect on the other girls.

“These are great kids and they're fun to coach. They love the game and they're passionate about the game. They have such a commitment to success that I feel like they can accomplish anything.”