Lakefield College School's Tennis Program Makes a Strong Start

The inaugural match of Lakefield College School’s 1st Boy’s tennis season commenced this past Wednesday, as eight players ventured to Mayfair East in Markham for a double-header showdown against Crescent School and St. Michael’s College.

 

In the first leg of the doubleheader, LCS faced off against their formidable opponents from St. Michael’s College. Leon Gell ’24, the reigning OFSAA High School Boys Singles Champion, encountered a familiar foe at #1 Singles but unfortunately succumbed in straight sets, 4-0, 4-0. Making his LCS debut, Masa Taniguchi ’27 similarly faced a tough challenge in the #2 Singles match, falling in straight sets, 4-0, 4-1. Another newcomer, Jonas Haber ’27, battled valiantly in the #3 Singles but was ultimately defeated, 4-0, 4-2.

 

Transitioning to the doubles matches, Oliver Finlayson ’24 and Sergio Ferez Pilotti ’27 paired up in the 1st Doubles match, narrowly missing victory. However, in an exciting turn, Carl Kramer ’25 and Hayden Sunley ’27 (both making their LCS debut) emerged victorious in the 2nd Doubles, securing a notable win with scores of 4-2, 4-1.

 

The second leg of the double-header proved to be more gripping, with the matches tied 2-2 heading into a decisive 3rd set tiebreak in the 1st Singles event. Despite some setbacks, there were notable performances. Sergio Ferez Pilotti ’27 clinched a victory on the 3rd Singles court, while Oliver Finlayson ’24 triumphed in a tense 2nd set tiebreak.

 

All eyes were on the center court where Leon Gell ’24 staged a remarkable comeback, claiming the 2nd set in a tiebreaker after being down. However, despite a spirited effort supported by the whole team, Gell was ultimately defeated in the final set.

 

Both coaches, Nicolas Small ’18 and Jackson Morton expressed satisfaction with the team's effort, emphasizing the resilience and determination displayed by the players. “Even though it was a tough loss, all the guys fought hard and showed their character. The road ahead looks promising,” commented Nicolas ’18.

 

The LCS Boys will return to action on April 24 at Mayfair East, facing Greenwood College School. Subsequent matches include:

 

The season comprises seven ties, each featuring 3 singles matches and 2 doubles matches. To secure victory in a tie, a team must win at least 3 of the 5 matches. 

LCS competes against formidable opponents including Trinity College School, Royal St. George’s College, Toronto French School, Upper Canada College, St. Michael's College, and Crescent School.