By Sosi Sengal, Staff Reporter
This year, the boys’ tennis team won the PIAA 3A State Championship for the second year in a row.
Since the start of the season the team won most of its matches, finishing with an almost undefeated status. Last season they won the state title, beating their biggest competition , the Lower Merion Aces, in a close match.
This year, the team made its first advancements to states after senior Voyin Markovic and junior Rohan Rao won the PIAA District 1 3A boys’ tennis doubles tournament on May 12. The team won its first round of states against St. Joe’s Prep on May 14. It headed to Hershey from May 17 through May 19, ultimately advancing to and winning the finals.
The team pursued the state title through consistent practice and teamwork. Sophomore Jake Tsang, who has played with the team for two years, believes that the team members’ bonds help them in matches.
“In Conestoga tennis, the whole team is very close as everyone knows each other,” Tsang said. “I think it helps us do even better during matches as everyone has each other’s back.”
The team sets itself apart from the other teams in the Central League by emphasizing the importance of team spirit. The players’ spirits are evident during matches through the players’ cheers and congratulations in between matches and during games. According to Tsang, support from one another drives the team towards success.
“Older players have told me to always be focused and keep a positive attitude during the match,” Tsang said. “ Making sure you are involved and cheering for your teammates when they win a good point (is important).”
Tsang hopes that the team will maintain the tight bonds that they have formed this year and continue to motivate each other, train hard and have a good time. Tsang also hopes that they can work together to uphold their legacy and defend their state title in the coming years.
“My hopes for the rest of my Conestoga career is to win states a couple more times with this team, while also making sure everyone on the team can have a great time and a fun experience,” Tsang said.
Sosi Sengal can be reached at [email protected].
