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BOYS' TENNIS
MATCH SUMMARIES
TIGERS TAKE FIRST ROUND IN PIAA CHAMPIONSHIP
(5/14/13) Traveling to Erie and playing indoors at the Pennbriar Athletic Club, the 9th seeded Tigers challenged Erie Cathedral Prep in the first round of the PIAA Team Championship and came away with a 3-2 victory and a trip to Hershey in the process. The Tigers started the scoring at number three singles where freshman Andrew Xu dominated Nate Estes in straight sets with his patented, patient game.
The second team point came from number one singles where junior Kevin Goth played a spirited match against Nick Ward. Goth took the first set and then traded winners in a tense second set. Momentum swung both ways, but Goth forced a tie break at 6-6 and then dominated the extra session with a 7-2 win to take his individual contest.
The third and clinching point came off the rackets of the number two doubles combo of freshman Jared Isaacs and senior Connor Goodman who set the pace from the start and dispatched Blaine Prichard and Michael Clark quickly to send the Tigers on a trip to Hershey. With the match decided, the Tigers continued play however at number one doubles with sophomore Eric Huang and senior Tomas Monti taking the first set but later falling in three to Andrew Dinger and Jonathan Prichard.
With PIAA first round play completed, the 19-1 Tigers now set their sights on the continuation of the PIAA Team Championship which shifts to Hershey, PA. The Tigers will take on the number one seed and defending AAA champion Conestoga in a quarterfinal match, Friday at 2 PM at the Hershey Racquet Club.
Match Summary
North
Allegheny—3 Erie Cathedral Prep. 2
Singles
#1 Kevin Goth (NA) def. Nick Ward (ECP) 6-2, 7-6
(7-2)
#2 Michael Prenovitz (ECP) def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA)
6-0, 6-4
#3 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Nate Estes (ECP) 6-2, 6-1
Doubles
#1 Andrew Dinger/Jonathan Prichard (ECP) def. Eric
Huang/Tomas Monti (NA) 1-6, 7-5, 10-4
#2 Jared Isaacs/Connor Goodman (NA) def. B. Prichard/Michael
Clark (ECP) 6-0, 6-3
TIGERS FALL TO SHADY SIDE ACADEMY IN WPIAL FINALS
(5/9/13) Playing at neighboring Pine-Richland Thursday afternoon, the second seeded Tigers tangled with Shady Side Academy for the WPIAL Championship but could not upset the top ranked Indians, falling 5-0. The score did not capture the competitiveness of the contest, as the Tigers held one set leads in three of the matches (1st singles, and 1st and 2nd doubles) before eventually falling in three sets in each case.
With WPIAL play completed, the 18-1 Tigers now set their sights on the PIAA State Tournament which begins Tuesday, May 14. North Allegheny will play the winner of District 10 (Northwestern PA) at a site and time to be determined.
Match Summary
Shady Side
Academy—5 North Allegheny—0
Singles
#1 Alok Nimgaonkar (SSA) def. Kevin Goth (NA) 0-6,
6-2, 7-5
#2 Eric Grubbs (SSA) def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 6-1,
6-3
#3 Cooper Kann (SSA) def. Andrew Xu (NA) 6-1, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Chris Grubbs/Michael Kann (SSA) def. Eric Huang/Tomas
Monti (NA) 4-6, 6-2, 6-3
#2 Henry Cohen/Naveen Jain (SSA) def. J. Isaacs/Connor Goodman
(NA) 4-6, 6-1, 6-4
TIGERS UPEND UPPER ST. CLAIR, ADVANCE TO CHAMPIONSHIP
(5/8/13) Playing indoors at the Alpha Tennis and Fitness club in Harmarville, the third seeded Tigers handily defeated the second seeded Panthers of Upper St. Clair 4-1 in the WPIAL Team Semifinals Wednesday afternoon. The first team point was delivered by the number one doubles team of sophomore Eric Huang and senior Tomas Monti who powered past Christian Meyer and Sam Shiffman in straight sets. Freshman Andrew Xu dominated at number three singles, also in straight sets, by patiently waiting for and bettering Mike Seitanakis’ long baseline shots.
The match clinching point came from the number two doubles duo of freshman Jared Isaacs and senior Connor Goodman. In a tight and well played contest, they came from behind in two consecutive sets to take both their match and to cement the team victory. Falling behind Mike Russell and Mark McTierman 0-4 in the first, they stormed back to take the set 7-5. Similarly in the second set, down 3-5, Isaacs and Goodman pushed four straight wins past the USC duo to start the victory celebration! The icing on the cake came from the number one singles position where junior Kevin Goth delivered the fourth team point by defeating sophomore Fernando Escribens in three sets. Goth, the Section 2 Singles Champion, took the first set 7-5, dropped the second, and then commanded his way to a 6-3 win in the third set against the Section 4 Singles Champion.
With the semifinal win in hand the Tigers, now 18-0 on the season, travel to Pine-Richland Thursday afternoon to meet up with top seeded Shady Side Academy. The starting time for this WPIAL championship match against the Section 3 champion Indians is scheduled for 3:00 PM. (Note: North Allegheny’s win against Upper St. Clair automatically qualifies the Tigers for the PIAA Team Championship tournament which starts next week.)
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY—4 Upper St. Clair—1
Singles
#1 Kevin Goth (NA) def. Fernando Escribens (USC)
7-5, 3-6, 6-3
#2 Dominick D’Amico (USC) def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA)
6-1, 6-2
#3 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Mike Seitanakis (USC) 6-1, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Eric Huang/Tomas Monti (NA) def. Christian Meyer/Sam Shiffman
(USC) 6-3, 6-3
#2 Jared Isaacs/Connor Goodman (NA) def. M. Russell/Mark
McTierman (USC) 7-5, 7-5
TIGERS POWER PAST FOXES IN WPIAL QUARTERFINALS
(5/6/13) The Tigers tennis squad continued their 2013 WPIAL Playoff journey with a home match in the quarterfinal round against Fox Chapel Monday afternoon and came away with a 4-1 victory against the formidable Foxes. The first team point was delivered by the number two doubles team of freshman Jared Isaacs and senior Connor Goodman who put on the proverbial clinic as they defeated Taha El Mabri and Lucus Fennell in straight sets. Freshman Andrew Xu dominated at number three singles, also in straight sets, by vanquishing Josh Lehman. Junior Stephen Chuirazzi more than held his own against the formidable Ben Short at number two singles before falling and setting the stage for the clinching point.
Sophomore Eric Huang and senior Tomas Monti took the first set against Karthik Narayanan and Jake Norman at number one doubles but found themselves in a dogfight in the second set. After numerous lead changes and service breaks, the NA tandem held serve at 5-6 to force a tie break. In front of cheering teammates, family and friends, Monti and Huang won the breaker 7-4 and clinched the match for the Tigers.
Not to be outdone, the number one singles post manned by junior Kevin Goth provided the fourth team point, as Goth defeated freshman Sid Rajupet in three sets. Down a set after losing a tie-break, Goth (Section 2 Singles and Doubles champion) roared back with power, pressure and relentless winners to beat one of the best singles players in Section 3.
With the quarterfinal win in hand, the #3 seeded Tigers, now 17-0 on the season, travel to Keystone Oaks High School Tuesday afternoon to tangle with Upper St. Clair in the WPIAL Semifinal round. The starting time for this match against the #2 seeded Panthers and Section 4 champions is scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY—4 Fox Chapel—1
Singles
#1 Kevin Goth (NA) def. Sid Rajupet (FC) 6-7
(5-7), 6-2, 6-3
#2 Ben Short (FC) def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 6-3,
6-4
#3 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Josh Lehman (FC) 6-2, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Tomas Monti/Eric Huang (NA) def. Karthik Narayanan/J. Norman
(FC) 6-3, 7-6 (7-4)
#2 Connor Goodman/Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Taha El Mabri/Lucus
Fennell (FC) 6-3, 6-1
TIGERS BEAT FRANKLIN REGIONAL IN PLAYOFF OPENER
(5/3/13) In the first round of the WPIAL Team Championships, the 3rd seeded Tigers hosted the Franklin Regional Panthers Friday afternoon and defeated their friendly Section 1 rivals 5-0 to advance to the Quarter Final round. Recording straight set victories in each match, the parade of winners was started by sophomore Eric Huang at number three singles, defeating Reno Casuccio. The second point was recorded by the second doubles team of seniors Connor Goodman and Erik Liu who defeated Hassan Chugtai and Alex Sebastian in front of the Erik Liu Fan Club. Junior Stephen Chuirazzi delivered the match clinching point at number one singles by defeating Rochan Hattangady.
The first doubles team of senior Tomas Monti and freshman Jared Isaacs defeated Kevin Mechlenburg and Nathan Yu. Rounding out the scoring, freshman Andrew Xu defeated Rochan Ramesh. The visiting Panthers, led by head coach Howard Fisher, offered spirited play with their young squad.
With the opening win in hand, the 16-0 Tigers continue their playoff season with a Quarter Final match Monday afternoon at home against Fox Chapel. Starting time is scheduled for 3:30 PM on the NASH courts.
Match Summary:
WPIAL Team
Championships-1st Round
NORTH ALLEGHENY—5 FRANKLIN REGIONAL--0
Singles
#1 Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) def. Rochan Hattangady (FR)
6-0, 6-3
#2 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Rochan Ramesh (FR) 6-1, 6-0
#3 Eric Huang (NA) def. Reno Casuccio (FR) 6-0, 6-1
Doubles
#1 Tomas Monti/Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Kevin Mechlenburg/Nathan Yu
(FR) 6-0, 6-2
#2 Connor Goodman/Erik Liu (NA) def. Hassan Chugtai/Alex
Sebastian (FR) 6-0, 6-0
TIGERS SHUTOUT AMBRIDGE, CLINCH UNDEFEATED REGULAR SEASON
(5/1/13) The Tigers tennis squad wrapped up their regulation matches with a 5-0 sweep of the Ambridge Area Bridgers Wednesday afternoon to clinch an undefeated regular season, going 15-0 on the campaign. Indoors again at PURE, the Tigers dropped only three games on the afternoon, as Junior Stephen Chuirazzi set the pace at number one singles by defeating Mark Kozlowski. Freshman Andrew Xu, at number two singles, ran past Kevin Brenneman. Senior Andy Radick in his first singles points match for the varsity squad took his contest against Aidan Phillips. Freshman Jared Isaacs and junior Cody Schurter formed the number one doubles team and swept Tyler Merritt and Tyler Gaona. Seniors Kyle Zhu and Evan Lee manned the number two doubles slot and triumphed over Cody Weil and Brett Merritt.
In addition to going 15-0 on the regular season, the Tigers clinched their third straight undefeated Section 2 record, going 14-0 this year in a highly competitive section. The WPIAL released the brackets for the Boys AAA Team Tournament, and the Tigers drew the overall #3 seed. They open championship play against the Franklin Regional Panthers, the third place finishers from Section 1. The Tigers will host this first round match Friday, May 3, at 3:30 PM on the NASH Courts. Friends and family are encouraged to attend!
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY—5 AMBRIDGE AREA--0
Singles
#1 Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) def. Mark Kozlowski (AA)
6-0, 6-1
#2 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Kevin Brenneman (AA) 6-0, 6-0
#3 Andy Radick (NA) def. Aidan Phillips (AA) 6-0, 6-1
Doubles
#1 Jared Isaacs/Cody Schurter (NA) def. Tyler Merritt/Tyler
Gaona (AA) 6-0, 6-0
#2 Kevin Zhu/Evan Lee (NA) def. Cody Weil/Brett Merritt
(AA) 6-1, 6-1
GOTH, MONTI REACH SEMIFINALS AT WPIAL DOUBLES
(4/29/13) Playing indoors at The Club in Monroeville Monday afternoon, the duo of junior Kevin Goth and senior Tomas Monti advanced through two rounds of the WPIAL AAA Tennis Doubles Championship before falling in the semifinal round. Entering the tourney as the Section 2 champions and #4 overall seed, the NA combo defeated the team of Kyle Hicken and Adam Kubicki of Chartiers Valley in the first round, 10-5.
The quarterfinal round contest proved to be an epic. Falling behind 2-5 and again 3-7 to Domenick D’Amico and Mike Russell of Upper St. Clair, Goth and Monti summoned the energy and willpower to keep chipping away, breaking serve and cutting off their opponents’ angles with winners. They tied the contest at 10 and forced a tension-filled, see-saw tie break where they prevailed 9-7.
The win sent the NA duo into the semifinal round where they ran into the overall #1 seed, the Shady Side Academy team of Alok Nimgaonkar and Chris Grubbs who defeated NA in straight sets. Goth and Monti proved to be strong standard bearers for Section 2. It was Goth’s second consecutive appearance at the WPIAL Doubles Championships, and he looks forward to chasing the crown again his senior season. Goth and Monti will participate in the consolation match Tuesday afternoon at the NASH courts, starting at 2:30 PM.
North Allegheny Summary –AAA Doubles Championship
Round One
Kevin
Goth/Tomas Monti (NA)
def. Kyle Hicken/Adam Kubicki (CV) 10-5
Quarterfinal Round
Kevin
Goth/Tomas Monti (NA)
def. Domenick D’Amico/Mike Russell (USC) 11-10 (9-7)
Semifinal Round
Alok Nimgaonkar/Chris Grubbs (SSA) def. Kevin Goth/Tomas Monti (NA)
6-3, 6-2
TIGERS CLINCH THIRD CONSECUTIVE SECTION CROWN, BEAT INDIANS, 4-1
(4/25/13) Winding down their section play schedule, the Tigers traveled to North Hills Thursday afternoon and returned to Wexford with a 4-1 win and the Section 2 championship for the third straight year. The game Indians, led by Coach Matt Woffington, offered a strong push against the Tigers who responded in kind. The first point for the Tigers came from the number one doubles team of sophomore Jared Isaacs and senior Connor Goodman who defeated Mike Chutko and Grant Traeger. Within minutes freshman Andrew Xu, playing number one singles for the second time this season, defeated Dan Schmidt for the second point. The clincher came at number three singles where sophomore Eric Huang worked his way past Jared Wink.
Presenting the fourth and final team point, junior Cody Schurter and senior Andy Radick defeated Craig Deng and Brian Lovasik in the only three set match of the day. Senior Evan Lee, making his first singles start in his varsity career acquitted himself well against the fleet-of-foot Ryan Balog.
The win moves the Tigers’ overall season record to 14-0, including a 13-0 section record. Next on the schedule, the Tigers doubles duo of junior Kevin Goth and senior Tomas Monti will represent NA and Section 2 at the WPIAL Doubles Tournament to be held Monday, April 29 at Shadyside Academy starting at 1:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY—4 NORTH HILLS--1
Singles
#1 Andrew Xu (NA)
def. Dan Schmidt (NH) 6-0, 6-1
#2 Eric Huang (NA)
def. Jared Wink (NH) 6-4, 6-1
#3 Ryan Balog (NH) def. Evan Lee (NA) 6-1, 6-4
Doubles
#1 Jared
Isaacs/Connor Goodman (NA) def. Mike Chutko/Grant Traeger (NH) 6-2,
6-0
#2 Cody Schurter/Andy Radick (NA) def. C. Deng/Brian Lovasik
(NH) 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (7-0)
* * * * * *
* * * * * * * *
TIGERS CONTINUE SECTION STREAK, BEAT BUTLER
(4/24/13) The Butler Golden Tornado flew into Wexford Wednesday afternoon and ran into a streaking NA squad, losing to the Tigers 5-0 in their Section 2 rematch. Indoors at the PURE Athletex complex due to poor weather conditions, the Tigers swept all matches in straight sets. Leading the charge at number one singles was junior Stephen Chuirazzi who defeated the talented A.J. May. Freshman Andrew Xu defeated Alex Russo at number two singles without losing a game. Senior Erik Liu, making his first singles appearance in a points match defeated fellow senior, Jake Bellis, also without losing a game from the number three slot.
First doubles was manned by the combo of sophomore Eric Huang and senior Connor Goodman who defeated Ethan Turner and Troy Bell. The second doubles team of seniors Andy Radick and Kevin Zhu defeated Jake Seybert and Ricky Hoffman.
The win moves the Tigers’ overall season record to 13-0, with a 12-0 section record. They continue Section 2 play Thursday afternoon against neighboring rival North Hills. The starting time for this road match against the Indians at the North Hills courts is scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH ALLEGHENY—5 BUTLER AREA—0
Singles
#1 Stephen
Chuirazzi (NA) def. A.J. May (BA) 6-2, 6-4
#2 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Alex Russo (BA) 6-0, 6-0
#3 Erik Liu (NA) def. Jake Bellis (BA) 6-0, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Eric Huang/Connor Goodman (NA) def. Ethan Turner/Troy Bell
(BA) 6-1, 6-2
#2 Andy Radick/Kevin Zhu (NA) def. Jake Seybert/Ricky
Hoffman (BA) 6-0, 6-2
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS DUO WIN SECTION 2 CHAMPIONSHIP
(4/22/13) On a sunny Monday, a marathon series of Section 2 doubles matches took place on the NASH courts, and when it was over, junior Kevin Goth and senior Tomas Monti came away with the section crown. With the win, Goth and Monti now advance to the WPIAL AAA Doubles championship to be contested beginning April 29 at Shadyside Academy. The long journey to the championship started with NA’s #2 team and 10th seed overall, junior Stephen Chuirazzi and sophomore Eric Huang, defeating Hampton’s #2 team and #7 overall seed, Jon Harrison and Wes Banks, 10-4. In their first round match, Goth and Monti, NA’s #1 team and overall #3 seed beat Ambridge’s #2 team and 14th seed, Cody Weil and Jordan Escamilla 10-0.
The second round was not so kind to Chuirazzi and Huang who played valiantly but lost to Seneca Valley’s #1 team and 2nd seed, Jon Perkins and Joe Shults, 2-10. Goth and Monti pushed past Pine-Richland’s #2 team and 6th seed, Brian Beck and Rishab Humar, 10-4 in the second round. This set up a semi-final showdown with the Seneca Valley #1 duo of Perkins and Shults who fell quickly to Goth and Monti in straight sets.
The championship match then pitted Pine-Richland’s #1 team and 1st seed, Caleb Kramer and Brett O’Donnell against Goth and Monti. Quickly and efficiently, the NA duo dominated the match from the start and took the contest in straight sets for the upset win. This marked the second Section championship for Goth this season, who defeated Kramer several weeks ago for the singles title.
While waiting for the WPIAL Doubles tourney, the Tigers team returns to action Wednesday afternoon at home (on the PURE courts) against the Butler Area Golden Hurricane starting at 1 PM.
North Allegheny Summary –AAA Section 2 Doubles Championship
Round One
#3
Kevin Goth/Tomas Monti (NA) def. #14 Cody Weil/Jordan Escamilla
(AA) 10-0
#10
Stephen Chuirazzi/Eric Huang (NA) def. #7 Jon Harrison/Wes Banks
(HA) 10-4
Quarterfinal Round
#3
Kevin Goth/Tomas Monti (NA) def. #6 Brian Beck/Rishab Humar (PR)
10-4
#2 Jon Perkins/Joe Shults (SV) def. #10
Stephen Chuirazzi/Eric Huang (NA) 10-2
Semifinal Round
#3
Kevin Goth/Tomas Monti (NA) def. #2 Jon Perkins/Joe Shults (SV)
6-1, 6-3
Championship Match
#3 Kevin Goth/Tomas Monti
(NA)
def. #1 Caleb Kramer/Brett O’Donnell (PR) 6-1, 6-2
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS CONTINUE SECTION PLAY, BEAT SENECA
(4/18/13) For the second consecutive sunny day on the NASH courts, the Tigers took an important section rematch, this time from their northern rivals, the Seneca Valley Raiders. The exciting 4-1 win for the Tigers featured stellar play at all positions, even as the Tigers and Raiders rested their respective number one players. Opening the scoring for the Tigers was freshman Andrew Xu who defeated Corey Fetter at number two singles without losing a game. The second team point came within minutes of Xu’s win when freshman Jared Isaacs, playing number three singles, completed his sweep of Sean Yanez. Junior Stephen Chuirazzi put up a game effort against Joe Shults at number one singles before falling in two very close sets.
At this point, both doubles matches were the focal point of the contest and later completed in quick succession. Coach Eric Grove’s Raiders put up a strong effort, but the match clinching point came courtesy of seniors Connor Goodman and Erik Liu at number two doubles. Falling behind and losing the first set, the duo charged back strongly and took the next two sets to seal the deal for the Tigers in front of family, friends, teammates, and the Erik Liu Fan club. The fourth point followed closely thereafter at number one doubles where the tandem of sophomore Eric Huang and senior Tomas Monti prevailed in straight sets over Mayank Parashar and Patrick O’Connor.
Moving to 12-0 at the three quarter mark of the season, the Tigers are now 11-0 in Section 2 play. They continue section action Friday afternoon against Ambridge. The starting time for this road match against the Bridgers is scheduled for 3:30 PM at Rochester Area High School. A special “shout out” and a thank you are in order to the many family, friends and classmates of the Tigers’ Tennis Squad who came out Thursday to cheer the team on and to show their support!
Match Summary(4/18/13)
NORTH ALLEGHENY—4 SENECA VALLEY--1
Singles
#1 Joe Shults (SV) def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 7-5, 6-4
#2 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Corey Fetter (SV) 6-0, 6-0
#3 Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Sean Yanez (SV) 6-1, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Tomas Monti/Eric Huang (NA) def. Mayank Parashar/Patrick
O’Connor (SV) 6-0, 6-2
#2 Connor Goodman/Erik Liu (NA) def. E. Abbott/Michael
Garczynski (SV) 2-6, 6-1, 6-2
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS TACKLE TALBOTS IN SECTION REMATCH
(4/17/13) On one of the more beautiful spring days of this tennis season, the Tigers entertained Hampton Wednesday afternoon in a crucial Section 2 match and took an exciting 3-2 win. The talented Talbots, led by Coach Grant McKinney, spread their talent to multiple positions in using a new line-up for the contest.
The first team point came from the extremely capable racket of the number three singles contestant, freshman Andrew Xu, who defeated Benny Truckenbrod in straight sets. Hampton evened the score by prevailing at number two singles. Following close behind, junior Kevin Goth defeated Michael Pfefferle-Gillot in straight sets to present NA with a 2-1 lead. Following the Hampton win at number one singles which evened the match score at 2 apiece, all eyes turned to the number two doubles contest. Freshman Jared Isaacs and senior Connor Goodman faced off against a very game Jonathan Harrison and Ryan Koch and prevailed in straight sets in front of cheering family, friends and teammates from both sides. For their strong effort and key win, Isaacs and Goodman were the NA “Players of the Game.”
The important team win moves the Tigers’ overall season record to 11-0, including a 10-0 section record. They continue Section 2 play Thursday afternoon against rival Seneca Valley. The starting time for this match against the Raiders on the NASH courts is scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary (4/17/13)
NORTH ALLEGHENY—3 HAMPTON AREA--2
Singles
#1 Kevin
Goth (NA) def. Michael Pfefferle-Gillot (HA) 6-1, 6-2
#2 Jung Bang (HA)
def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 6-3, 6-0
#3 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Benny Truckenbrod (HA) 6-0, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Brad Cisek/Westin Banks (HA) def. Eric Huang/Tomas Monti (NA)
6-3, 6-1
#2 Jared Isaacs/Connor Goodman (NA) def. Jonathan Harrison/Ryan
Koch (HA) 6-3, 6-3
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS SWEEP SHALER IN SECTION REMATCH
(4/16/13) The Tigers had to move indoors to the PURE Athletex Complex Tuesday afternoon to complete their rain-delayed second match against Shaler, defeating Coach Chuck Mura’s Titans 5-0. Leading the way at number three singles was freshman Jared Isaacs, beating Jake Raible. Senior Erik Liu and junior Cody Schurter took the number one doubles match against Chris Seifried and Eric Fischerkeller. Next was junior Stephen Chuirazzi at number one singles, defeating a game Brandon McNeil. Rounding out the action, senior Tomas Monti defeated the tenacious Evan Conti at number two singles. Seniors Andy Radick and Evan Lee were awarded the number two doubles match by forfeit. Moving to 10-0 on the season with a 9-0 section record, the Tigers look to improve on that mark with a big match Wednesday afternoon versus Hampton. The starting time for this home contest on the NASH courts against the Talbots is scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH ALLEGHENY—5 Shaler Area--0
Singles
#1 Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) def. Brandon McNeil (SA)
6-3, 6-0
#2 Tomas Monti (NA) def. Evan Conti (SA) 6-2, 6-2
#3 Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Jake Raible (SA) 6-0, 6-1
Doubles
#1 Erik Liu/Cody Schurter (NA) def. Chris Seifried/Eric
Fischerkeller (SA) 6-2, 6-0
#2 Andy Radick/Evan Lee (NA) def. Josh Bens/Sean Funfar
(SA) by forfeit
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
WPIAL CLASS AAA SINGLES BRACKET
GOTH BOWS OUT IN ROUND TWO OF WPIAL SINGLES CHAMPIONSHIPS
(4/15/13) Under overcast skies Monday afternoon at Shadyside Academy, junior Kevin Goth represented North Allegheny and Section 2 at the WPIAL AAA Singles Championship. As the two-year Section 2 Singles Champion, Goth drew Tyler Paunovich of Kiski Area in the first round and dispatched him 10-1.
The second round was a different story, as Goth met Fernando Escribens of Upper St. Clair in the next match. The scrappy Escribens got off to a fast start, but Goth scratched and clawed his way back into the contest before eventually falling 10-7. It was Goth’s second consecutive appearance at the WPIAL Championships, and he looks forward to chasing the crown again his senior season.
In the meantime, the Tigers return to team action Tuesday afternoon to resume last weeks’ rain interrupted match against the Shaler Area Titans. Match time on the Shaler Area High School courts is 3 PM.
North Allegheny Summary –AAA Singles Championship (April 15)
Round One
Kevin Goth
(NA) def.
Tyler Paunovich (KA) 10-1
Round Two
Fernando Escribens (USC) def. Kevin Goth (NA) 10-7
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
GOTH DOES IT AGAIN, WINS SECTION TITLE
(4/9/13) On a sunny Tuesday in Wexford, junior Kevin Goth picked up where he left off last season and repeated as the AAA Section 2 Singles Champion, besting Caleb Kramer of Pine-Richland in an exciting three set match. Goth, the number one seed lost the first set to the talented number two seed, Kramer, by a 3-6 count. The second set saw more than the swing of two rackets; the swings in points, games and set lead changed almost on a whim. Both players appeared to dominate the set at different times but ultimately it reached the 6-6 mark, calling for a tie break. Goth prevailed 7-5 in the tension-filled tie overtime, setting the stage for the 3rd and deciding set. Cheered on by his Varsity teammates, Goth took control of the 3rd set early on and wrapped up the match 6-2 to become the 2013 champion.
With the win, Goth advances to the WPIAL AAA Singles championship, to be contested beginning April 15 at Shadyside Academy. The tenacious Kramer will also represent Section 2. While waiting for the WPIAL Singles tourney, the Tigers team returns to action Wednesday afternoon on the road against the Shaler Area Titans starting at 3 PM.
North Allegheny
Summary –AAA Section 2 Singles Championship
Championship Match
#1 Kevin
Goth (NA)
def. #2 Caleb Kramer (PR) 3-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-2
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
GOTH HAS SUCCESSFUL FIRST DAY AT SECTIONS
(4/8/13) Three rounds of play were completed on the NASH courts Monday afternoon as the AAA Section 2 Singles Championship commenced in search of the 2013 champion. NA’s junior, Kevin Goth, put in a solid day’s work and earned a berth in Tuesday’s final in the hopes of defending his crown from last year. In the first round, Goth, the tournament’s overall number one seed defeated Ambridge’s second singles player Kevin Brenneman, the #16 seed, by a score of 10-0. NA junior Stephen Chuirazzi, the #10 seed, fell in the first round to Joe Shults (#7) of Seneca Valley, 10-2. In the second round, Goth worked his way past Dan Schmidt (# 9) by a score of 10-1. This set up another match in the series between two friendly rivals as Goth took on the strong challenge of junior Jonathan Perkins (#4) from Seneca Valley in the semi-final contest. Goth prevailed 6-3, 6-2 to advance to Tuesday’s championship match for the second consecutive year.
In the semi-final match on the other side of the draw, #2 Caleb Kramer of Pine-Richland defeated Brad Cisek (#3) of Hampton to claim the finalist spot opposite Goth. Both players have faced each twice this year during team competition and split matches. Kramer beat Goth in straight sets on March 19 and Goth returned the favor this past Friday, April 5, also in straight sets. The championship match Tuesday afternoon on the NASH courts is scheduled for 2:30 PM. All Tiger tennis fans, family and friends are invited to cheer Kevin on!
North Allegheny Summary – AAA Section 2 Singles Championship
Round One
#1 Kevin
Goth (NA) def. Kevin Brenneman (AMB) 10-0
#7 Joe Shults (SV) def. #10 Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 10-2
Round Two
#1 Kevin Goth (NA)
def. #9 Dan Schmidt (NH) 10-1
Semi-Final
#1 Kevin Goth (NA)
def. #4 Jonathan Perkins (SV) 6-3,
6-2
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS RUN PAST RAMS IN SECTION REMATCH
(4/6/13) The second round of section play began Friday afternoon as the Tigers hosted neighboring Pine-Richland at the NASH courts, taking the re-match by a 4-1 score. The friendly rivals played spirited tennis in the important match as both teams showed their desire to be playoff contenders. The first point for the Tigers came once again from the number two doubles team of senior Connor Goodman and freshman Jared Isaacs who defeated Jacob Jeanson and Danny McMurray in straight sets without losing a game. Freshman Andrew Xu followed suit with an identical performance at number three singles against Nikhil Singh. The match clinching point came from the dynamic doubles duo of sophomore Eric Huang and senior Tomas Monti who worked their way past Brian Beck and Rishab Humar in straight sets.
With the match in hand, all eyes turned to the battle of Section 2 stalwarts where defending champion, NA junior Kevin Goth, and the talented, tenacious Caleb Kramer battled. Goth wrapped up the victory for the Tigers with an arsenal of outstanding shots in a straight set, 6-4, 6-4 win. Seniors Erik Liu and Andy Radick prevailed in three sets in their exhibition doubles match while senior Evan Lee also won in an exhibition singles match.
The win improves the Tigers’ overall season record to 9-0, including an 8-0 section record. On Monday, April 8, the Section 2 Singles Tournament begins on the NASH courts at 2 PM, with Kevin Goth looking to defend his title and junior Stephen Chuirazzi also representing the Tigers.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY - 4 PINE-RICHLAND - 1
Singles
#1 Kevin
Goth (NA) def. Caleb Kramer (PR) 6-4, 6-4
#2 Brett O’Donnell
(PR) def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 6-3, 6-3
#3 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Nikhil Singh (PR) 6-0, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Eric
Huang/Tomas Monti (NA) def. Brian Beck/Rishab Humar (PR) 6-1, 6-3
#2 Connor Goodman/Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Jacob Jeanson/Dan
McMurray (PR) 6-0, 6-0
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS BEAT INDIANS 5-0 IN SECTION PLAY
(4/4/13) Playing their first outdoor home match of the season, the Tigers took on Section 2 arch-rival North Hills Thursday afternoon in the sunshine and fashioned a 5-0 win. The game Indians challenged the Tigers’ alternate line-up and offered their spirited play in each contest. The first point for the Tigers came from the number two doubles team of seniors Andy Radick and Kevin Zhu who defeated Craig Deng and Devon Grupp in straight sets. The second point was delivered by freshman Jared Isaacs at number three singles where he defeated Ryan Balog, also in straight sets.
The clinching point came from senior
Connor Goodman who beat Jared Wink from the number two singles
position. Rounding out the matches, senior Tomas Monti, playing
number one singles, defeated Dan Schmidt in a well contested match.
Finally, senior Erik Liu and junior Cody Schurter won a
fierce two-set match against Mike Chutko and Grant Traeger at number one
doubles, including a 15-13 tie break in the first set. Senior Evan
Lee also defeated Matt Belack in an exhibition singles match.
The win moves the Tigers’ overall season record to 8-0, including a 7-0
section record. They continue Section 2 play Friday afternoon against
rival Pine-Richland, marking their second meeting of the year. The
starting time for this re-match against the Rams on the NASH courts is
scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY - 5 NORTH HILLS - 0
Singles
#1
Tomas Monti (NA) def. Dan Schmidt (NH) 6-3, 7-5
#2 Connor Goodman
(NA) def. Jared Wink (NH) 6-0, 6-4
#3 Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Ryan Balog (NH) 6-2, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Erik
Liu/Cody Schurter (NA) def. Mike Chutko/Grant Traeger (NH) 7-6
(15-13), 6-4
#2 Andy Radick/Kevin Zhu (NA) def. Craig Deng/Devon Grupp
(NH) 6-1, 6-1
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
NA FASHIONS COMEBACK WIN OVER TALBOTS
(4/3/13) It started in a snow storm but ended with the sun shining, as the Tigers traveled to the Hampton Community Park Courts to take on their new Section 2 rivals, the Hampton Talbots, newcomers to AAA tennis this season in the WPIAL. Spotting the Talbots a 1-0 lead after the completion of the number two singles match, the Tigers roared back to sweep the remaining contests and the critical match, 4-1. Hampton, truly a section contender and outstanding team, played aggressive tennis and challenged the Tigers at every turn.
The first team point came from the very capable rackets of the number two doubles combo, senior Connor Goodman and freshman Jared Isaacs, who defeated Benny Truckenbrod and Ryan Koch in straight sets. Following close behind, sophomore Eric Huang and senior Tomas Monti took an intense match at number one doubles, defeating Westin Banks and Jung Bang in straight sets while stretched to the limit in a second-set tie break. With the NA duo clinging to a 6-5 lead, the Hampton duo held serve in a long deuce game to force the tie break which the Tigers then took 7-4. The match clinching point was delivered by freshman Andrew Xu, challenged for the first time this season at number three singles before prevailing over Michael Pfefferle-Gillot in three sets. Zu took the first set 6-1 before a strong challenge by Pfefferle-Gillot in the second set evened the score. Zu responded with composure and an array of versatile shots and closed out the third set (and match) 6-1.
With the match decided, all eyes turned to a battle of Section 2 ‘heavyweights’ as defending champion, NA junior Kevin Goth, tangled with Hampton’s Brad Cisek. Spotting Cisek a 3-0 lead in the first set, Goth fired back to win 7-6, prevailing 7-5 in the tie break. Cisek quickly evened the match with a 6-2 second set win. Goth took charge of the third set from the start and closed out his contest 6-1. In exhibition play, senior Erik Liu and junior Cody Schurter took their doubles match in straight sets, as did seniors Andy Radick and Kevin Zhu.
The important win moves the Tigers’ overall season record to 7-0, including a 6-0 section record. They continue Section 2 play Thursday afternoon against rival North Hills. The starting time for this match against the Indians on the NASH courts is scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY - 4 HAMPTON - 1
Singles
#1
Kevin Goth (NA) def. Brad Cisek (HA) 7-6 (7-5), 2-6, 6-2
#2 Jonathan Harrison
(HA) def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 6-1, 6-2
#3 Andrew Zu (NA) def. Michael Pfefferle-Gillot (HA) 6-1,
4-6, 6-1
Doubles
#1 Eric
Huang/Tomas Monti (NA) def. Westin Banks/Jung Bang (HA) 6-3, 7-6
(7-4)
#2 Connor Goodman/Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Benny Truckenbrod/Ryan
Koch (HA) 6-3, 6-1
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
NA CONTINUES WINNING WAYS, BEAT BUTLER
(4/2/13) The Tigers tennis squad braved the elements in a rare outdoor match Tuesday afternoon, tangling with the Golden Tornado in Butler and walking away with a 4-1 victory. The first match point came via the racket of senior Tomas Monti, playing number three singles and beating Jake Bellis without losing a game. The second team point was delivered by freshman Andrew Xu, competing at number two singles where he defeated Henry May, also in straight sets. The match clinching point came from the second doubles combo of senior Erik Liu and junior Cody Schurter who defeated Gavin Shuler and Martin Zanicky in straight sets.
Moving into the number one doubles slot for the day, senior Connor Goodman and freshman Jared Isaacs prevailed in their match against Devin Fitz and Cam Sedwick. Senior Stephen Chuirazzi played a spirited three set match in his debut at number one singles, falling in a third set tie-break to A.J. May. In exhibition matches, seniors Andy Radick and Kevin Zhu took their doubles match while senior Evan Lee took his singles match, both in straight sets.
The win moves the Tigers’ overall season record to 6-0, with a 5-0 section record. They continue Section 2 play Wednesday afternoon against new rival, Hampton. The starting time for this match against the Talbots on the Hampton Community Park courts is scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY - 4 BUTLER - 1
Singles
#1 A.J.
May (BA) def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 3-6, 6-1, 7-6
#2 Andrew Zu (NA) def. Henry May (BA) 6-0, 6-1
#3 Tomas Monti (NA) def. Jake Bellis (BA) 6-0, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Connor Goodman/Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Devin Fitz/Cam Sedwick
(BA) 6-1, 6-3
#2 Erik Liu/Cody Schurter (NA) def. Gavin Shuler/Martin
Zanicky (BA) 6-2, 6-0
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS AMBLE PAST AMBRIDGE, 5-0
(3/26/13) The Tigers tennis squad wrapped up their pre spring-break matches with a 5-0 sweep of new Section 2 rivals, the Ambridge Area Bridgers, Tuesday afternoon. Indoors again at PURE, the Tigers presented a new line-up that saw several players in different positions but the results spoke for themselves as the Tigers did not drop a single game. Leading the way once again was freshman Andrew Xu at number one singles, defeating Mark Kozlowski. The second point was won by freshman Jared Isaacs, playing at number three singles for the first time as he beat Tyler Gaona.
The match clinching point was delivered by the all-senior, number one doubles combo of Erik Liu and Andy Radick who defeated Cody Weil and Tyler Merritt. The other senior doubles combo, Kevin Zhu and Evan Lee, defeated Brett Merritt and Jordan Escamilla, presenting Evan Lee with his first varsity victory in his first points match. Sophomore Eric Huang played the number two singles position where he won against Kevin Brenneman.
Moving to 5-0 on the season, the Tigers are now 4-0 in Section 2. Following the spring-break hiatus they resume play Tuesday afternoon, April 2, on the road against Butler. The starting time for this match against the Golden Tornado on the Butler Area Senior High courts is scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY - 5 AMBRIDGE - 0
Singles
#1 Andrew Zu (NA) def. Mark Kozlowski (AA) 6-0,
6-0
#2 Eric Huang (NA) def. Kevin Brenneman (AA) 6-0, 6-0
#3 Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Tyler Gaona (AA) 6-0, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Erik Liu/Andy Radick (NA) def. Cody Weil/Tyler Merritt
(AA) 6-0, 6-0
#2 Kevin Zhu/Evan Lee (NA) def. Brett Merritt/Jordan
Escamilla (AA) 6-0, 6-0
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS END WEEK WITH WIN OVER RAIDERS
(3/23/13) With winter weather still nipping at all appendages, the Tigers tennis squad completed the first week of section play unblemished, capped by a 4-1 win over rival Seneca Valley at the Lakevue courts Friday afternoon. Opening the scoring for the Tigers, once again, was freshman Andrew Xu who defeated Dhru Kohli at number three singles without losing a game. The second team point came courtesy of first doubles where senior Tomas Monti and sophomore Eric Huang beat Mayank Parashar and Alex Park in straight sets.
The victory clinching point came from junior Kevin Goth at number one singles, where the defending Section 2 Singles Champion turned in a dominating performance. Facing off against Jon Perkins, one of Section 2’s stellar performers, Goth used his entire arsenal of shots to win in straight sets. Senior Connor Goodman and freshman Jared Isaacs combined for another solid performance at number two doubles, handling Eric Abbott and Michael Garczynski in two sets. Junior Stephen Chuirazzi played a spirited match at number two singles, falling in a close three-set contest to Joe Shults.
Moving to 4-0 early in season, the Tigers are now 3-0 in Section 2 play, having swept all three matches this week. They continue section play Monday afternoon against Hampton. The starting time for this road match against the Talbots is scheduled for 3:30 PM at the Hampton Community Courts.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY—4 SENECA VALLEY--1
Singles
#1 Kevin Goth (NA) def. Jon Perkins (SV) 6-4, 6-2
#2 Joe Shults (SV) def. Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 6-0, 4-6, 7-5
#3 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Dhru Kohli (SV) 6-0, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Tomas Monti/Eric Huang (NA) def. Mayank Parashar/Alex Park
(SV) 6-2, 6-3
#2 Connor Goodman/Jared Isaacs (NA) def. E.
Abbott/Michael Garczynski (SV) 6-3, 6-2
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS SWEEP SHALER FOR SECTION WIN
(3/20/13) The Tigers had to move indoors on the first day of spring to tangle with the Titans and swept Shaler Area 5-0 at the Pure Athletex Complex Wednesday afternoon. Leading the charge at number one doubles was the tandem of freshman Jared Isaacs and senior Erik Liu who defeated Chris Siefried and Jon Magoun. The second Tiger point came courtesy of junior Stephen Chuirazzi at number one singles as he moved past Brandon McNeil. The victory clincher came off the racket at number two singles where senior Tomas Monti, playing his first singles match of the year, dispatched Evan Conti.
Senior Connor Goodman also saw his first singles action and defeated Jake Raible. Rounding out the victory parade was the second doubles team of junior Cody Schurter and senior Andy Radick, both making their varsity debuts in beating Dan Borgen and Josh Bens.
Moving to 3-0 on the young season with a 2-0 section record, the Tigers look to improve on that mark with a match Friday afternoon versus Seneca Valley. The starting time for this road match against the Raiders is scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY - 5 Shaler Area - 0
Singles
#1 Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) def. Brandon McNeil (SA)
6-0, 6-0
#2 Tomas Monti (NA) def. Evan Conti (SA) 6-0, 6-0
#3 Connor Goodman (NA) def. Jake Raible (SA) 6-2, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Jared Isaacs/Erik Liu (NA) def. Chris Siefried/Jon Magoun
(SA) 6-0, 6-0
#2 Cody Schurter/Andy Radick (NA) def. Dan Borgen/Josh
Bens (SA) 6-0, 6-0
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS PUSH PAST RAMS IN SECTION OPENER
(3/20/13) Trying to escape the last traces of winter, the Tigers tennis squad moved indoors to the Lakevue Racket Club Tuesday afternoon to tangle with arch-rivals Pine-Richland in the section opener of the 2013 season. Each of the five matches resulted in straight set wins, with the Tigers holding on for a hard fought 3-2 victory.
Opening the scoring for the Tigers, once again, was freshman Andrew Xu who defeated Brian Beck at number three singles without losing a game. The second team point came courtesy of second doubles where senior Connor Goodman and freshman Jared Isaacs breezed by Jacob Jeanson and Nikhil Singh. The clinching point came soon afterwards when senior Tomas Monti and sophomore Eric Huang outlasted Danny McMurray and Rishab Humar in first doubles. Junior Kevin Goth played a spirited match with Caleb Kramer, with Kramer holding on for the close victory.
Moving to 2-0 on the young season, the Tigers look to improve their Section 2 record with a match Wednesday afternoon versus Shaler Area. The starting time for this home match against the Titans is scheduled for 1:30 PM, and the venue is PURE Athletex Sportsplex.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY - 3 Pine-Richland - 2
Singles
#1 Caleb Kramer (PR) def. Kevin Goth (NA) 7-6 (10-8), 6-4
#2 Brett O’Donnell (PR) def Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 6-0, 6-0
#3 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Brian Beck (PR) 6-0, 6-0
Doubles
#1 Tomas Monti/Eric Huang (NA) def. Danny McMurray/Rishab Humar
(PR) 6-3, 6-3
#2 Connor Goodman/Jared Isaacs (NA) def. Jacob Jeanson/Nikhil
Singh (PR) 6-0, 6-2
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TIGERS FREEZE OUT FOXES IN SEASON OPENER
(3/15/13) After several weather cancellations earlier in the week, the Tigers opened their 2013 season with an exhibition match on the road against the Fox Chapel Foxes and took a 4-1 victory on a chilly, wind-swept Friday. The first team point came courtesy of a newcomer, freshman Andrew Xu, who swept Jake Norman in two sets at number three singles to begin his high school career. The next point arrived from the fine play of the first doubles combo of senior Tomas Monti and sophomore Eric Huang who dispatched Taha El-Magbri and Patrick Campbell in straight sets.
The match-clinching point was delivered by the second doubles team of senior Connor Goodman and another freshman newcomer, Jared Isaacs, who also swept John Kilmer and Chris Selwood. Number one singles manned by junior Kevin Goth provided the fourth team point, as Goth defeated Josh Layman in straight sets to finish the day. With the opening win in hand, the Tigers look to defend their AAA Section 2 title as section play begins on Monday against arch rival Pine-Richland. The starting time for this road match against the Rams is scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Match Summary
NORTH
ALLEGHENY - 4 Fox Chapel - 1
Singles
#1 Kevin Goth (NA) def. Josh Layman (FC) 6-3, 7-5
#2 Karthik Narayanan (FC) def Stephen Chuirazzi (NA) 6-1,
7-6 (7-5)
#3 Andrew Xu (NA) def. Nate Ward (FC) 6-0, 6-1
Doubles
#1 Tomas Monti/Eric Huang (NA) def. Taha El-Magbri/Patrick
Campbell (FC) 6-3, 6-1
#2 Connor Goodman/Jared Isaacs (NA) def. John
Kilmer/Chris Selwood (FC) 6-3, 6-2
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Any questions or comments should be
directed to Athletic Director Bob
Bozzuto at:
bbozzuto@northallegheny.org
