After a 23-year drought, the St. John’s Prep boys’ tennis team reclaimed their Division 1 crown last season under coach Mark Metropolis. With a nearly intact roster and the addition of junior Rudr Malayya, one of the state's top talents, the Eagles are favored to repeat as champions this year. Malayya transferred from Lexington and seamlessly integrated into the lineup, replacing injured senior John DeAngelis at first singles. The team boasts an impressive 4-0 start, defeating formidable opponents such as Concord-Carlisle and BC High. Despite being the clear favorites, the Eagles remain grounded, aware of the challenges ahead.

In his 36-year tenure at St. John’s Prep, Coach Mark Metropolis has witnessed championship seasons come in pairs. The latest resurgence began last year when the Eagles triumphed with a 22-0 record, culminating in their first Division 1 title since 1998. This year, the team faces the pressure of being the favorite while navigating the absence of key player John DeAngelis due to injury. Malayya’s arrival has not only filled the void but elevated the team's potential. Known for his strategic play and versatility, Malayya is already proving to be an invaluable asset.

Beyond Malayya, the core group remains unchanged, featuring seasoned players like senior captain Jack Prokopis and junior Luke Free in singles positions, alongside the formidable doubles duo of Luke Prokopis and Boris Kouzminov. The team's cohesion stems from years of training together, creating a tight-knit unit capable of overcoming adversity. Malayya, familiar with his teammates since middle school, credits their camaraderie as crucial to their success.

To maintain their edge, Metropolis has arranged challenging scrimmages against prestigious NEPSAC schools like Roxbury Latin, Phillips Andover, and Phillips Exeter. These matches aim to push the team beyond their usual league competition, preparing them for any scenario they might face during the championship run. The Eagles understand that complacency can be detrimental; thus, they approach each match with the mindset of an underdog.

The road to repeating as champions will require focus and resilience. With Malayya anchoring the lineup and a strong supporting cast, the Eagles are poised to continue their dominance. Metropolis emphasizes the importance of teamwork and character, qualities he believes define successful programs. As they prepare for tougher tests ahead, including matchups against formidable opponents like Concord-Carlisle, the Eagles remain committed to their ultimate goal: securing back-to-back titles.