Playoff Time For Syosset Boys Tennis

Braves Boys Tennis Preps For Playoffs

Wednesday’s boy’s tennis victory over Plainview JFK accomplished two things. First, it clinched the second seed in the conference playoffs, meaning they will play at home in the first round. Secondly, the 5-2 triumph ended a two match losing streak, key for a team looking for momentum entering the year’s most important period.

The run towards a championship, one that would complete a high school tennis sweep for Syosset in 2010-2011 (), begins on Monday at 4pm when Port Washington (8-4) visits

The first round match with the Vikings should be a close one. The two teams split the regular season series, with Port Washington topping the Braves 4-3 on Monday afternoon.

Syosset’s (9-3) success in the playoffs will likely be determined by their doubles play. The Braves first doubles team, made up of Ian Baranowski and Jordan Zecher, finished the season 9-3. However, singles play will also be important. Co-captain Stephan Peng has been solid at the second singles position, coming from behind to win in three sets in a 4-3 win over Great Neck North on May 5.

“Each team will be tough in the playoffs," coach Shai Fisher said of his teams post-season prospects. “They are all very good. We’ll play Port on Monday, see what happens, and go from there.”

More Gym Time Leads To Successful Badminton Season

When boys volleyball was shifted from a spring sport to a fall sport, Jaime St. John was thrilled. St. John, the Head coach of the girl's badminton team, knew that this would benefit his senior-laden team. With less competition for the ever-valuable gym time, the Braves have thrived.

“We’ve been able to get a full two-and-a-half to three hour practice each day,” St. John said. “That’s why we did a lot better this season than we have in seasons’ past. From playing so much more, they’re playing so much better.”

After two victories in the season’s final week, the Braves finished 11-1. The impressive record is no doubt the result of an experienced laden team. Of Syosset’s eleven starters, seven are seniors. All eleven finished with seven or more wins, granting them All-Conference honors.

“It’s the best season we’ve had as a team in the nine years that I’ve been (coaching),” St. John said.

Now, attention shifts to this weekend’s county championships at Bellmore-JFK High School. The two day tournament is single elimination. Players who advance to Saturday will be awarded All-County honors.

 First singles player Jaime Oliveira, second singles player Mary Kehne, and the second doubles team of Julia Day and Stephanie Lee will be representing Syosset.