The Benet Academy girls tennis team entered the final day of the 1A IHSA State Finals with a commanding seven-point lead, poised to secure the state trophy. Despite strong performances from their singles players, the Redwings' path to victory hinged on the success of their dynamic doubles duo, Shane Delaney and Clare Lopatka, who faced off against the formidable Maroons of U-Chicago Laboratory Schools in the championship match.

Redwings Seek Redemption and Secure State Glory

Delaney and Lopatka Take a Thrilling Opening Set

The opening set of the 1A doubles final was a tightly contested affair, with both teams showcasing their exceptional skills on the court. Isabela Ji and Sophia Holt of U-Chicago Laboratory Schools put up a valiant effort, but the Benet Academy duo of Shane Delaney and Clare Lopatka proved to be too much to handle. The Redwings' ability to work in tandem, coupled with their unwavering determination, allowed them to edge out their opponents in a nail-biting tiebreaker, securing the first set 7-6(3).

U-Chicago Evens the Score in the Second Set

Undeterred by their narrow defeat in the opening set, the Maroons of U-Chicago Laboratory Schools regrouped and came out swinging in the second set. Holt and Ji displayed their versatility, utilizing a range of shots to keep the Benet Academy duo on their toes. The Redwings fought valiantly, but the Maroons' relentless pressure ultimately paid off, as they clinched the second set 6-4, setting the stage for a decisive third set.

Delaney and Lopatka Repeat as State Champions

With the match tied at one set apiece, the Benet Academy duo of Delaney and Lopatka knew they had to dig deep to secure their second consecutive state title. The Redwings showcased their resilience and adaptability, adjusting their strategy to counter the Maroons' strengths. In a thrilling third set, Delaney and Lopatka displayed their championship pedigree, outlasting their opponents to claim the 1A Doubles Championship with a 7-5 victory in the final set.The Benet Academy girls tennis team's triumph marked the program's first state title since 2016, as they avenged their narrow defeat to U-Chicago Laboratory Schools in the previous year's state finals. The Redwings' success was a testament to their unwavering teamwork, individual talent, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that has become the hallmark of their program.

Naperville Players Shine in Class 2A

While the spotlight was on the 1A division, the Naperville area also produced standout performances in the Class 2A competition. Brooke Coffman and Gabby Lee, seniors from Naperville North, capped off their illustrious four-year careers with a fourth-place finish in the doubles event. Additionally, Naperville Central's Sofia Olaru, a senior, earned All-State honors by advancing to the 2A singles quarterfinals. These impressive achievements by Naperville's student-athletes underscored the depth and quality of tennis talent in the region.As the curtain fell on another thrilling IHSA State Finals, the Benet Academy Redwings emerged as the undisputed champions in the 1A division, while Naperville's players continued to make their mark on the state's tennis landscape. The resilience, skill, and sportsmanship displayed by these young athletes serve as an inspiration to aspiring tennis players across Illinois.