BY BARBIE SHONIA
Although the boys tennis team finished with just 7 wins in eighteen matches last year, the players hope to utilize their experience to improve in the coming season. With returning veterans like Senior Pujan Desai and a group of new players, they hope take a step forward in the new season.
Last season wasn’t the most astounding, but the boys remain eager to face all challenges that come their way. “I am extremely excited about the upcoming season,” stated senior Jordan Greco, who earned his first win at the varsity level last year in a doubles match against Sayreville. “This is a talented group that is ready to make some noise in the GMC.”
The boys look forward to seeing improvement after refining their skills during the summer to come back stronger and more confident than ever. “From my previous season I learned that my volleys were a little weak,” explained Mahin Patel, who earned three doubles wins at the varsity level as a freshman last year. “I practiced hard during the summer, and now it is safe to say I have mastered them.”
The players look to improve their games in ways this season instead of just focusing on their mechanics. “The previous season taught me that tennis is a very mentally challenging game,” Greco said. “It easy to lose focus, especially if you miss a shot, and that could lead to you playing worse.”
With six freshmen and four sophomores on the roster, the younger players will rely on the upperclassmen to lead them to a successful season. “Practicing with my friends and learning from their skill sets allowed me to find my place on the team,” sophomore Taran Balaji said. “I think we will prove to be competitive and strong, and we’re going to build a positive team culture within the course of the season.”
This team seems ready to take on any challenges they face in the coming season. “We have a very strong and talented lineup, and all have one common goal, to win. We not only have the psychical strength and endurance but also the mindset to go beyond limits and persevere to do whatever it takes to win,” said Matthew Quizon.
The team opens the season on the road against Monroe on Monday, April 3 at 10:00am, followed by the home opener on Wednesday April 5 at 10:00 at the Municipal Complex against South Brunswick.
Posted on 4/1/23
Photos by Lors Photography
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