Just prior to the start of the spring season, Delhi High's Jorge Carrillo tweeted that he wanted to bring a league title back to his school and the tennis program.
Well, he and his team managed to achieve that feat for the first time since 2011, but the senior also managed to capture the Southern Athletic League boys’ singles title in last week's league tournament from the Delhi courts.
He accomplished that last Friday in the league tournament after meeting teammate Roberto Mendoza in an all Hawks finale, where he managed to come out on top in a close match, 6-2, 5-7 and 10-7.
“I feel like we both knew what our weaknesses were and we both gave it our best,” said Carrillo. “I wish it wasn't that close, but he was a good opponent and I won last year for doubles.”
All in all, Carrillo capped off his final season with the Hawks’ tennis program undefeated by the conclusion of league.
Carrillo went a perfect 12-0 in all SAL matches. He also won two matches on Thursday prior to Friday's final. Mendoza, who had a great second half of league, was in doubles the first half and then moved up to No. 2 boys singles the final half of the season in league play.
“My number one goal was to get that banner, but I felt that I could do it I believed that I could do it,” said Carrillo. “My teammates and my coaches played a big part in that. They motivated me to do my best. I also want to say that having an undefeated season feels amazing.”
Along with his perfect season, the Delhi team went 11-1 in SAL matches during the year and fared well in tourney play.
On the girls’ single side, Jessica Juarez of Delhi made it to the final but lost to Lacey Dudley of Orestimba, 6-3 and 6-2.
In the final for the boys’ doubles, Jess Gonzalez and Marco Aleman of Orestimba defeated Delhi's, Lucas Alberto and Erique Nuño, 6-2 and 6-3.
Delhi also had their No. 1 girls’ double team that consisted of Samantha Muñoz and Judith Perez reach the final where they were defeated.
“I feel like we had an amazing season,” said Carrillo. “I wouldn't change anything about it. I'm proud of my team and where we are at right now.”
Next for Carrillo and multiple team members is Sections. Mendoza will also be joining along with the No. 2 girls’ singles, the No. 2 boys’ doubles and the No. 2 girls’ doubles team.
“We have sections and playoffs to get ready for,” Carrillo added.
Sections will take place from Thursday and conclude Friday in Stockton at a place and time yet to be determined.