Improvement is the theme for the Spotswood High School boys’ tennis team, which brought its record to 2-6 with a 4-1 victory over Dunellen.
"We’re mostly young but experienced," said Coach Gary Floyd, whose Chargers played yesterday against Middlesex.
At first singles, senior captain Mark Cantora has a losing record, but he hangs tough.
"He’s consistent and patient, and he doesn’t give in," said Floyd.
Sophomore Kyle Feldenkreiss, the No. 2 man, has been solid and appears to be a future first singles player.
"He’s taken lessons and come a long way," said Floyd. "He has a big serve and good variety in his shots, and he plays the baseline and the net well."
At third singles, sophomore Steven Draikiwicz has improved greatly with lessons and emerged as a hardworking player who is also, Floyd said, "the fittest guy on the team."
First doubles players Adam Narkiewicz, a senior, and junior Mike Hager have played together for three years and complement each other well. Narkiewicz uses his height to advantage, while Hager has the bigger serve.
In addition, Bryan Nesi, a junior, and sophomore Brendan Cyrus have both benefited from tennis camp and have improved their all-around games this year.
"They’re building the foundation for the next couple of years," said Floyd. "Bryan has a big serve, while Brendan is an all-court guy."
Rounding out the squad is freshman Mike Golias, who recently got his first victory while playing second doubles.
"He’s excited about it," Floyd said.
They will return to the courts later today when they host Bishop Ahr. From there, they will take on Blue Division leading South River Rams tomorrow before taking on Carteret on Monday and South Amboy on Tuesday.
At 2-6, the Chargers are in the middle of the Blue Division pack with Carteret. However, with some late-season wins, the Chargers could climb the division rankings and set the tone for another improved season next year.
— Richard Jerome