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University’s boys tennis program is on a historic run but that doesn’t mean the Trojans are above grinding out close matches or finding different ways to succeed.
The juggernaut from the Irvine Unified School District showed its determination and composure Saturday in edging Menlo of Atherton 4-3 in Fresno to capture its second consecutive CIF State championship.
“We had some close playoff wins (this season) that allowed this particular group to grow and evolve into a champion,” veteran University coach John Kessler said.
University (29-1) secured the championship-clinching, fourth point from No. 1 singles player Rishvanth Krishna. The sophomore and reigning Ojai singles champion rallied from a two-game deficit in the first set to defeat Northwestern commit Cooper Han 7-5, 6-4.
Han, the No. 2-ranked senior in California by Tennis Recruiting Network, led 5-3 in the first set at Sierra Sport and Racquet Club.
University’s loaded sophomore class also delivered two other points against Menlo (29-2).
No. 4 singles player Daniel Zhu won 6-1, 6-0 while sophomore doubles pair Tyler Chandler and Reid Hashimoto swept 6-4, 7-5 at No. 2 doubles.
Senior Arystarkh Len, who played No. 3 singles, won 6-2, 6-3.
University claimed the CIF/USTA Southern California title with a 5-2 triumph against Harvard-Westlake. The Trojans also beat Harvard-Westlake 10-8 in the final of the CIF-SS Open Division with Chandler and Hashimoto securing the winning points.
“Composure,” Kessler said. “Other teams come out at the beginning of each match pumped up and maybe are a little over the top with their cheering.”
“I keep telling our boys, we don’t have to match that emotion,” the coach added. “We have to stay disciplined and focused, committing to our shots.”
University has won three consecutive regional titles and four straight Open crowns. The Trojans’ only loss this spring came against Punahou of Hawaii 4-3 in the finals of the All-American tournament.
