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American Heritage Dominates in Tennis Championship
2025-05-02

On May 1st, American Heritage-Delray showcased their exceptional tennis skills by securing a "three-peat" at the Class 2A FHSAA state championship. The team triumphed over Miami's Gulliver Prep with an impressive score of 4-1, marking their 12th boys' state title and 22nd overall since the program's inception in 1998. Coach Brian Schliefer’s guidance has been instrumental in this achievement. Key players like junior Ajinkya Karnataki and freshman Karl Ekstrand contributed significantly to the victory, excelling both in singles and doubles matches.

American Heritage-Delray displayed remarkable teamwork and strategic play during the championship match. Their dominance began with a sweep in the doubles category, where the duo of Karnataki and Yanni Anagnostopoulos secured a pivotal win. Freshman Ekstrand further bolstered the team's lead by clinching his singles match, ultimately sealing the victory. Coach Schliefer emphasized the importance of starting strong with doubles, noting how it set the tone for the rest of the game. The Stallions exhibited great communication and cohesion, traits that set them apart from their competitors.

The energy and focus demonstrated by the team were evident throughout the tournament. In the semifinals, they convincingly defeated Jacksonville's Bolles High School with a perfect 4-0 scoreline. This performance highlighted the team's ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. Karnataki attributed their success to the collective effort and unity among teammates, which elevated their gameplay to new heights.

American Heritage-Delray's future looks promising as they have no graduating seniors, ensuring a continuation of their winning streak next season. Their commitment to excellence and teamwork is expected to yield more victories in the years to come. The young athletes are poised to build on this year's achievements, maintaining the legacy established by Coach Schliefer and his predecessors.

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