Richard Hofmann Battles Hard at WPIAL Singles
With Section 2 Singles champion Jared Isaacs bowing out of the competition to focus on doubles play, sophomore Richard Hofmann represented North Allegheny in Monday’s first round of the WPIAL Singles Tournament. Seeded #14, Hofmann drew Sidd Rajupet (#3 seed) of Fox Chapel at the Racquet Club of Monroeville. Both were familiar with each other’s game, as the Tigers and Foxes tangled earlier in the season. Rajupet was terrific in the match early on, running off to 5-0 and 9-1 leads in the 10 game pro set. Hofmann found his game at that point and battled back to make it a 6-9 contest by harnessing his pin point serve and angling his shots perfectly. Rajupet served out to take the match 10-6 but not without Hofmann serving notice that he will be a future title contender.
Isaacs and Hofmann will begin defense of their Section Doubles championship next Monday on the NASH courts. In the meantime, the Tigers return to team action as they host perennial powerhouse Shady Side Academy Wednesday afternoon. Match time is scheduled for 3:30 PM.