The Jesuit men’s tennis team is looking to have another strong season this year after coming off a state title season. Last year, Reif Larsen placed 3rd in singles and Tristian Hernandez and Aaron Yan placed 3rd in doubles to contribute to an overall total of 22 points in the 6A state tournament last season, to secure the title over West Linn.
“Last year was great, we took the state championship for the first time in several years, which was really exciting. This upcoming season we’re hoping to build off that success, despite losing some really strong seniors,” captain Joseph Penna said.
With many returning players this year, the Jesuit tennis team looks to build off the momentum they created last season, with the hopes to go back to back in state this year.
“Every year at the end of it (the season), my assistants, Jerry Quinn, Connor Leahy and I, sit there and talk for the entire offseason about what we did right, what we did wrong, and things we need to work on. So picking up from last year we are continuing to focus on the accountability, responsibility, and commitment from the players and team members this year” coach Jeff Wood said.
Losing impactful seniors like Reif Larsen, Aaron Yan, and Surya Panyam, the team will have to rely on their returners and incoming talent to find success in big matches this year.
“We lost a considerable amount of talent with the graduation of our seniors last year, which certainly left a mark on our team. However, we’re thrilled about the new young talent that has joined us, including promising players like Andy Ma and Ben Lee,” captain Patrick Doherty said.
At the head of the program, the men’s tennis team has been coached by Jeff Woods for the past 30 years. Under his leadership, the Jesuit team has consistently been a strong contender for the 6A state title, winning 15 of the past 30 years he has been coaching. With such an individual sport, Woods has been tasked with creating an atmosphere that fosters success and unity for the program.
“We are really trying to focus on taking an individual sport and creating some team unity and that atmosphere of commitment to each other. So we ultimately know we can count on each other and be there as a team when it matters.”
Jesuit will host Barlow, Lincoln, and Sheldon to kick off their season in the Jesuit tournament April 11th and 12th. Until then the Jesuit team is starting to ramp up practices and preparation in order to achieve their ultimate goal of success in districts and state.
“As a team, we’re incredibly excited for the upcoming districts and state competitions. We know there’s a significant amount of hard work ahead of us and our focus is on coming back stronger, more cohesive, and better prepared than ever,” Doherty said.
