In sports we all have our superstitions and things that you just don’t say out loud because you don’t want to jinx your team. That was true for Friar’s Boys Tennis Head Coach Curtis Mccalla who opened the season knowing this committed group of young men could be back to back league champions. With 12 names on the roster and two committed captains he just made sure he did not let the pressure of winning get in the way of having fun and just playing tennis.
Third year Head Mccalla, did not let it out of the bag at any time, “But I knew when this season opened that we could be back to back champions.” Senior Captains Chris Pileggi and Tavish McNulty played hard, they made sure everyone was where they needed to be, when they were supposed to be and they kept everyone accountable. “They wanted it and when you have committed leaders it spreads, I knew it was even more possible,” said Coach Mccalla.
Not only did they have strong leaders, but going 10-1 overall proved they had a strong team. They outscored opponents 68-11 for the season. Their one loss was 3-4 to Chaminade on May 1st and with only 7 days to champs and a 7 match win streak broken you refocus quickly. They went 2-1 vs Cham this season and 2-2 last year. They ended the season on a three game win streak. “It may not seem like a lot but it’s something to keep us motivated as we look forward. I lose four seniors, but the bar has been set high,” said Mccalla.
The Friars entered leagues on May 9th knowing it was not going to be easy facing top rival Chaminade who was just coming off a 5-2 Friar lost to us two days before champs. The match opened and after the first round of singles SA was up 2-1. St. Anthony’s went on to capture the doubles 4-1, taking the CHASS League Title 5-2.
In Doubles, Junior Luke Cahill/Pileggi, Junior Cole McNulty/ Senior Marc Sherrill and Senior Brendan Hill/Junior Black Brown won their doubles to clinch the match. “We have a sound group of players like Sr. Hill who made a difference and will be missed next year. All where a key part of this team championship. I’m glad this team had the opportunity to win back to back titles together making it even better,” said Coach.
By: Jared Valluzzi is a Sophomore at St. Anthony’s; this is his second year writing for Friar news. He has earned his certificate from Hofstra’s program of Sports broadcasting and Journalism. Jared also plays hockey and lacrosse for St. Anthony’s.
