Finley Boys’ Tennis Stays Competitive
This year’s J. Taylor Finley Middle School boys’ tennis team was a feisty group. Within 24 hours of getting soundly defeated, the Falcons displayed the ability to turn right around and surprise a tough opponent. That focused and positive attitude paid dividends.
Coached by Steve Fitts and captained by Marc Feldman and Victor Tellez, Finley compiled a 4-5 record this past spring. The two eighth graders were ensconced in the No. 1 and No. 2 singles positions. “Both players played against other teams’ best players and fared pretty well,” Fitts said.
Feldman and Tellez took their leadership roles seriously. Fitts said the pair “helped out tremendously by leading stretches and team drills.” Finley’s roster featured a near equal balance of veterans and newcomers.
“All 15 players demonstrated great sportsmanship and supported one another throughout the entire season,” Fitts said. “All 15 players came to practice each day determined to improve their skills and become better tennis players.”
Eighth grader Sam Yanuck turned in a fine season, finishing with a 6-3 mark. “Sam played doubles most of the season,” Fitts said. “Whomever Sam was partnered with he led by example and made that player better.” Eighth graders Ryan Newell and Tyler Cook also played their way to six wins each.
The most memorable accomplishment of the season came after Smithtown Great Hollow/Nesaquake shut-out the Falcons, 7-0. The very next day, Finley nipped tough East Northport, 4-3. “The players were able to shake off a very lopsided defeat and beat a very good team,” Fitts said.
Seven players are eligible to return as eighth graders next spring. Fitts said the team “hopes to improve upon our 4-5 record.”
Finley Aces: Fitts selected Yanuck as the team’s MVP . . . Jon Bethiel earned the Good Sportsmanship Award . . . Matt Sherman was Finley’s Most Improved Award honoree . . . The roster also included Samuel Dejoie, Stephen Heuwetter, Alexander Kalas, Patrick Lombardi, Shane Meyers, Michael Nemaric, Nicholas Pandolfi and Michael Piazza . . . Finley’s victories came against Hauppauge (4-3), Northport (6-1), Oldfield (4-3) and East Northport (4-3).
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