The LHSAA state tennis championships in Monroe showcased thrilling matches and fierce competition among high school teams. Brother Martin celebrated individual victories as Mitchell Armbruster claimed the singles title, while Sal Trujillo and Reed MacAlester triumphed in doubles. However, Jesuit emerged victorious overall in Division I with a narrow team win by securing 15 points, one point ahead of Brother Martin. The tournament also highlighted Willow's dominance in Division II, where My-Anh Holmes achieved her fourth consecutive singles title, defeating her sister My-Linh Holmes in an intense final match. Other highlights included Mandeville freshman Ciara Sergi reaching the Division I girls' singles final and St. Scholastica's Riley Fitzmorris and Lauren Boudreau winning the Division II doubles championship.
Jesuit Edges Out Brother Martin for Team Title Amid Individual Glory
In the vibrant city of Monroe, the LHSAA state tennis championships unfolded under the autumn sun, bringing together top talent from Louisiana high schools. On Tuesday, the Division I finals saw Jesuit secure the coveted team trophy after scoring 15 points, just edging out Brother Martin by a single point. This victory was attributed to Jesuit advancing more players into the semifinals, showcasing their depth and resilience. For Brother Martin, there were shining moments too: singles player Mitchell Armbruster dominated his opponent Alton Swan from Jesuit in a rematch, claiming the singles crown with scores of 6-3, 6-1. In doubles action, seniors Sal Trujillo and sophomore Reed MacAlester delivered a remarkable performance, overcoming Jesuit’s Leo Congeni and Scott Harper in a dramatic three-set battle that required a comeback from being down 3-1 in the second set. Coach Lee MacAlester expressed pride in his graduating players’ achievements, noting their stylish exits marked by success.
Meanwhile, Jesuit coach Scott Schlesinger praised his team's collective effort, particularly highlighting Jake Bravo’s quarterfinal comeback in singles and Andrew Cavallino and Cody Martinez’s upset victory in doubles play. These efforts underscored Jesuit’s strong teamwork and determination throughout the tournament.
A Celebration of Talent and Tradition Across Divisions
In Division II, Willow continued its reign as the girls' team champion, marking their third consecutive title. Senior My-Anh Holmes added another chapter to her illustrious career by capturing her fourth straight singles title. Facing off against her younger sister My-Linh Holmes, the match proved to be both competitive and emotionally charged. Despite the seemingly lopsided scoreline of 6-2, 6-0, Willow coach Gian Balsamo emphasized the seriousness and quality of the encounter this year compared to previous sibling showdowns.
In other notable performances, St. Scholastica’s Riley Fitzmorris and Lauren Boudreau clinched the Division II doubles championship, adding another highlight to the event. Additionally, Mandeville freshman Ciara Sergi made waves by advancing to the Division I girls' singles final, though she fell short against reigning champion Ella Mancuso of St. Joseph’s. Looking ahead, tennis enthusiasts can anticipate further excitement as the Division III and IV tournaments take place on Thursday and Friday in Monroe.
From a journalist's perspective, these championships not only celebrate athletic prowess but also exemplify the spirit of camaraderie, perseverance, and dedication inherent in sportsmanship. The close margins between teams like Jesuit and Brother Martin remind us of the importance of every point and the value of teamwork. Furthermore, witnessing young athletes like Ciara Sergi and My-Anh Holmes make history reinforces the notion that hard work and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements. As we look forward to upcoming tournaments, it is clear that Louisiana's high school tennis scene continues to inspire future generations through its dynamic and competitive environment.