UPDATE: In a dramatic finish to the 4A State Tennis Championships, Peak to Peak’s star players Vivaan Bhardwaj and Shreyas Sundaresan fell short in their respective finals at Pueblo City Park on Saturday. The losses mark a heartbreaking end to an impressive season for the boys’ tennis team, which has consistently dominated the Class 4A circuit.
Bhardwaj, a senior, faced a formidable opponent in Nithesh Karuppasamy from D’Evelyn, who overwhelmed him, winning in 12 straight games. Reflecting on his performance, Bhardwaj noted, “I entered the tournament with confidence, but Karuppasamy’s unique style and speed made him a challenging opponent.” His experience in high-pressure situations proved invaluable, yet it was not enough to secure victory.
Sundaresan battled hard against Oliver Neely of Colorado Academy, losing in two tightly contested sets, 7-5, 7-5. Earlier this week, Sundaresan had also faced Neely in the semifinals, where he lost in a nail-biting match that ended 6-1, 5-7, (11-9). “I had a strategy to attack his backhand, but he adapted quickly. I learned a lot from this experience,” Sundaresan stated, emphasizing the importance of focusing on his own game moving forward.
The Pumas showcased exceptional talent throughout the tournament, with only one line failing to qualify. Freshman Cody Palmer made waves by finishing fourth in his singles match, an impressive feat for a newcomer. Head coach Matt Palmer expressed pride in his team’s performance: “This has been a fantastic learning experience. Our younger players will only improve from here.”
As the tournament concluded, Peak to Peak’s journey in the state tennis scene remains noteworthy, with aspirations for next year already forming. The emotional rollercoaster of the finals reflects the hard work and dedication of these young athletes, setting a strong foundation for future success.
With the Pumas’ season ending on a high note despite the setbacks, fans can expect a fierce comeback as the team gears up for the next season. The lessons learned this year will undoubtedly fuel their drive to reclaim glory in the upcoming competitions.
