Well, the whole season came down to today. Get a win, go to the state tournament; lose and the team portion of the season is finished.
We went with the same lineup that we used against South yesterday. Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Clay. Doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach, Kenny/Andy Harris.
Ryan was done first today, he won much quicker than the last match against Wayzata, when he won in a third set. Clay was done next, his match went to the Trojans. Shortly after Clay's loss, Manny quickly finished off his opponent with a 6-0 second set. Hopkins 2, Wayzata 1.
Wayzata's doubles teams have always been strong and deep. Today was no exception. As I lost my first set 7-5, our #1 and #2 doubles teams lost. Hopkins 2, Wayzata 3. With all of the cheering going on, I was fully aware of the team's situation as I entered my second set.
I went down an early break, but got it back, and ended up taking a 4-3 lead in the second set. Just as my opponent, Scott Vezzosi, held to even my second set at four games all, #3 doubles lost their second set 7-5, meaning the team match had been decided: Hopkins 2, Wayzata 4.
Admittedly, it was hard to focus after this point, since I knew the team's match had already been lost. But I can't take any credit away from Scott, I've played him many times, and he stepped his game up big time today when it was needed, and he fully deserved the victory; he took the second set 6-4.
Final score: Hopkins 2, Wayzata 5.
As Coach Novak told us after the match, it's never fun to lose. But, we still have to take the positives: we made it to the section final and we gave it a good shot, we just fell a little short.
We've still got the individual tournaments that will be held at the University of Minnesota's Baseline Tennis Center next Tuesday and Wednesday. Again, Ryan and Andy will be playing singles, Manny and I will be playing doubles together, as well as Brandon and Andrew Rust. I'll be back on Tuesday to give the results of the individuals.
Until then,
Michael
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Section semifinal: Hopkins v Minneapolis South
Well, we knew that South would come ready to play today, and they definitely did. Somewhat surprisingly, they decided to go with their strong singles lineup. We went back to our lineup that we used against Edina, in our final regular season match last Monday.
Clay played #4 singles today, and, unfortunately, was the first match done, and he was on the losing end. Shortly after, #2 doubles (Andy Novak/Zach) won, evening the match at 1. Meanwhile, Ryan, myself, and Manny all won our first sets, but were all struggling in our seconds.
#3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny) were next off, also with a win. #1 dubs (Brandon/Rust) won next. Hopkins 3, South 1.
After winning my first set, my opponent played well in his second and was able to even our match. As I went to get some water, I saw that both Ryan and Manny were down 5-2 in their second sets. Although we only needed one of us to win in order to win the team match, we were all in tough battles.
I started off my third set strong, going up to a 3-0 lead. I noticed Ryan lost his second set as well, but Manny fought back to 5-4 and was playing well. I heard the parents clapping and saw him change the scorecards again: 6-5 in Manny's favor.
I held to go up 4-0, and Manny finished his match off, sealing the team victory. Although I knew our spot in the section final was safe, I still wanted to keep fighting for my own win. I talked to Ryan after the match, and he felt the same way. The USTA official even offered to Ryan to play a super-tiebreak a few games into the third, but we wanted to play the full third out.
I went into the changeover up 4-1, and Ryan got up to a 2-1 lead. I was able to close my match out, winning 6-1 in the third set. After thanking my group of friends that came to watch, we saw Ryan win his third set, 6-2.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Minneapolis South 1.
Wayzata took down Edina by a score of 5-2 today, so Wayzata will be our opponents in the section final tomorrow. Coach Novak told us not to celebrate too much, and be ready for tomorrow; we've worked all season for the opportunity we have tomorrow. We were able to beat Wayzata 4-3 earlier in the year, but it could have very easily gone the other way, and they'll be ready for tomorrow as well.
Until then,
Michael
Clay played #4 singles today, and, unfortunately, was the first match done, and he was on the losing end. Shortly after, #2 doubles (Andy Novak/Zach) won, evening the match at 1. Meanwhile, Ryan, myself, and Manny all won our first sets, but were all struggling in our seconds.
#3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny) were next off, also with a win. #1 dubs (Brandon/Rust) won next. Hopkins 3, South 1.
After winning my first set, my opponent played well in his second and was able to even our match. As I went to get some water, I saw that both Ryan and Manny were down 5-2 in their second sets. Although we only needed one of us to win in order to win the team match, we were all in tough battles.
I started off my third set strong, going up to a 3-0 lead. I noticed Ryan lost his second set as well, but Manny fought back to 5-4 and was playing well. I heard the parents clapping and saw him change the scorecards again: 6-5 in Manny's favor.
I held to go up 4-0, and Manny finished his match off, sealing the team victory. Although I knew our spot in the section final was safe, I still wanted to keep fighting for my own win. I talked to Ryan after the match, and he felt the same way. The USTA official even offered to Ryan to play a super-tiebreak a few games into the third, but we wanted to play the full third out.
I went into the changeover up 4-1, and Ryan got up to a 2-1 lead. I was able to close my match out, winning 6-1 in the third set. After thanking my group of friends that came to watch, we saw Ryan win his third set, 6-2.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Minneapolis South 1.
Wayzata took down Edina by a score of 5-2 today, so Wayzata will be our opponents in the section final tomorrow. Coach Novak told us not to celebrate too much, and be ready for tomorrow; we've worked all season for the opportunity we have tomorrow. We were able to beat Wayzata 4-3 earlier in the year, but it could have very easily gone the other way, and they'll be ready for tomorrow as well.
Until then,
Michael
Monday, May 23, 2011
Section Quarterfinal: Hopkins v Holy Angels
Today was really the first day of the season. Our first section match, it's do or die.
As I explained in the previous post, we are seeded first, so we played the #9 seed, Holy Angels. Although not seeded very high, they were able to upset Minneapolis Southwest in their first round match and we knew they would come in fighting.
We played a slightly different lineup today, still with Ryan, myself, and Manfred playing #1-3 singles, but Zach Miller played #4. #1 doubles was the same, Brandon and Rust, followed by the Andys at #2 (Novak/Harris) and Kenny Novak and Clay played #3.
Zach was able to take home our first victory this season for the #4 singles position. In fact, he was the first one off the court; I was only up 3-2 in the first set! After Zach finished, #2 doubles claimed a straight-sets win, as did Manfred. Next, #1 and #3 doubles came off with victories. Hopkins 5, Holy Angels 0.
Now, only Ryan and I were left. Both of us played up-and-down first sets, but were able to win them. Ryan finished first, and I was able to close my match out shortly after. A good way to start our season off, with seven straight-set wins.
Final score: Hopkins 7, Holy Angels 0.
Tomorrow we've got a rematch against Minneapolis South, who got by Benilde, St. Margaret's today, 6-1. To see the goings-on of our first match, feel free to refresh your memory: http://gohugeorgohome.blogspot.com/2011/04/hopkins-at-minneapolis-south-battle.html
It should be a great match, they always bring their mental strength as well as their strong tennis game.
Until then,
Michael
As I explained in the previous post, we are seeded first, so we played the #9 seed, Holy Angels. Although not seeded very high, they were able to upset Minneapolis Southwest in their first round match and we knew they would come in fighting.
We played a slightly different lineup today, still with Ryan, myself, and Manfred playing #1-3 singles, but Zach Miller played #4. #1 doubles was the same, Brandon and Rust, followed by the Andys at #2 (Novak/Harris) and Kenny Novak and Clay played #3.
Zach was able to take home our first victory this season for the #4 singles position. In fact, he was the first one off the court; I was only up 3-2 in the first set! After Zach finished, #2 doubles claimed a straight-sets win, as did Manfred. Next, #1 and #3 doubles came off with victories. Hopkins 5, Holy Angels 0.
Now, only Ryan and I were left. Both of us played up-and-down first sets, but were able to win them. Ryan finished first, and I was able to close my match out shortly after. A good way to start our season off, with seven straight-set wins.
Final score: Hopkins 7, Holy Angels 0.
Tomorrow we've got a rematch against Minneapolis South, who got by Benilde, St. Margaret's today, 6-1. To see the goings-on of our first match, feel free to refresh your memory: http://gohugeorgohome.blogspot.com/2011/04/hopkins-at-minneapolis-south-battle.html
It should be a great match, they always bring their mental strength as well as their strong tennis game.
Until then,
Michael
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Section Draws
Earlier this week, the draws, or tournament barckets, for the team and individual section tournaments came out. On Tuesday, all of the coaches in the section met and argued their cases for a higher seed. When all was said and done, the seeds were as follows:
1. Hopkins
2. Wayzata
3. Edina
4. Minneapolis South
5. Benilde, St. Margaret's
6. Robbinsdale Armstrong
7. St. Louis Park
8. Minneapolis Southwest
9. Holy Angels
10. Richfield
11. Robbinsdale Cooper
12. Minneapolis Roosevelt
13. Minneapolis Henry
The draw can be viewed here: http://mshsl.org/mshsl/showbrackets.asp?tournid=395&bracket=5825
We will play Holy Angels on Monday, and if we win, we will likely have a rematch against South. Since we are the highest seed, all of our matches will be at home if we continue to advance. Although the top four seeds in the section are arguably four of the top seven teams in the state, only one of us can advance to the state tournament.
Now, individuals.
Although the individuals portion of the tennis season is fun, I believe that it can be, and usually is, a negative distraction from the team aspect of high school tennis. Individuals works as follows: each team in the section chooses two singles players and two doubles teams to compete in the section tournament. This is completely separate from the team aspect. Two singles players and two doubles teams qualify for the state tournament from each section.
After winning the individual doubles portion of the state tournament last year, Ryan is playing singles this year, and he is the top seed in our section and receives a first-round bye. Andy Harris is also playing singles, and he's got a tough draw, he will have to play Wayzata's top player, the #3 seed, Dustin Britton in his second round match.
Manfred and I decided to team up and play doubles together, and we were given the #2 seed, and we've also got a first-round bye. Brandon and Rust are the #8 seed. Coach Novak said they got a raw deal since we were seeded highly and they must be on the opposite side of the draw than us.
The full singles draw can be seen here: http://mshsl.org/mshsl/showbrackets.asp?tournid=395&bracket=5826
Doubles: http://mshsl.org/mshsl/showbrackets.asp?tournid=395&bracket=5827
We've got Holy Angels on Monday at home. That's when the real season starts.
Until then,
Michael
1. Hopkins
2. Wayzata
3. Edina
4. Minneapolis South
5. Benilde, St. Margaret's
6. Robbinsdale Armstrong
7. St. Louis Park
8. Minneapolis Southwest
9. Holy Angels
10. Richfield
11. Robbinsdale Cooper
12. Minneapolis Roosevelt
13. Minneapolis Henry
The draw can be viewed here: http://mshsl.org/mshsl/showbrackets.asp?tournid=395&bracket=5825
We will play Holy Angels on Monday, and if we win, we will likely have a rematch against South. Since we are the highest seed, all of our matches will be at home if we continue to advance. Although the top four seeds in the section are arguably four of the top seven teams in the state, only one of us can advance to the state tournament.
Now, individuals.
Although the individuals portion of the tennis season is fun, I believe that it can be, and usually is, a negative distraction from the team aspect of high school tennis. Individuals works as follows: each team in the section chooses two singles players and two doubles teams to compete in the section tournament. This is completely separate from the team aspect. Two singles players and two doubles teams qualify for the state tournament from each section.
After winning the individual doubles portion of the state tournament last year, Ryan is playing singles this year, and he is the top seed in our section and receives a first-round bye. Andy Harris is also playing singles, and he's got a tough draw, he will have to play Wayzata's top player, the #3 seed, Dustin Britton in his second round match.
Manfred and I decided to team up and play doubles together, and we were given the #2 seed, and we've also got a first-round bye. Brandon and Rust are the #8 seed. Coach Novak said they got a raw deal since we were seeded highly and they must be on the opposite side of the draw than us.
The full singles draw can be seen here: http://mshsl.org/mshsl/showbrackets.asp?tournid=395&bracket=5826
Doubles: http://mshsl.org/mshsl/showbrackets.asp?tournid=395&bracket=5827
We've got Holy Angels on Monday at home. That's when the real season starts.
Until then,
Michael
Monday, May 16, 2011
Hopkins at Edina
Today was the final day of the regular season, and we finished off with a rescheduled match against Edina, our last Lake Conference opponent and also a strong contender in the section, along with Wayzata and South.
From talking with former players, I've gathered that Hopkins boys tennis has not beaten Edina for at least eight years. I can't find the data online, but I can be pretty sure that it's probably been closer to twenty-eight years.
Although we may have been considered the favorite going into today's match, we knew that Edina is a tennis factory and will always have solid and deep teams. We went with the same lineup that we played against Maple Grove. Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Clay. Doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach, Andy Harris/Kenny.
Please keep in mind that my match was the last to finish today, so, for the most part, I wasn't aware of the matches coming off as I was playing, but I saw enough and talked to everyone after the match. Also, Edina's unorthodox court setup makes it difficult to see the doubles matches if you're playing singles and vice-versa.
The first two matches done today were #2 and #3 doubles. Zach and Andy Novak finished first, with a 6-2, 6-3 win. Andy Harris and Kenny also won shortly after, 6-1, 6-3. Edina took the next match at #1 doubles, with Brandon and Andrew Rust losing in two tight sets. Edina 1, Hopkins 2.
Meanwhile, the singles matches were going as usual. Ryan, Manny, and I won our first sets, while Clay dropped his. Manny finished his second set off pretty quickly, and won 6-2, 6-1. Clay and Ryan finished at about the same time, Clay was defeated, but Ryan won. Edina 1, Hopkins 4.
Ryan won just as my match was reaching its climax. I had won the first set 6-2, but I was then broken to begin the second set. My opponent, Kavir Kumar, was able to hold serve until he was serving for the set at 5-4. I held and went into the changeover up 6-5. He then regained some confidence on his serve and forced a tiebreak. I won the first three points, before dropping the next three. At the six-point changeover was when Ryan won his match. I then got another mini-break to go up 6-3, before he won both of his service points to get back to 6-5. With my first match point on my serve, I was able to finish it off with an ace.
Final score: Edina 2, Hopkins 5.
Although it doesn't mean much, this win gave us the Lake Conference title, which has gone to Edina almost every year in recent history. Tomorrow we have practice, and Coach Novak will be going to the section meeting tomorrow night, where the team and individual draws will be made. I'll post the link to the draws when they are made available.
Until then,
Michael
From talking with former players, I've gathered that Hopkins boys tennis has not beaten Edina for at least eight years. I can't find the data online, but I can be pretty sure that it's probably been closer to twenty-eight years.
Although we may have been considered the favorite going into today's match, we knew that Edina is a tennis factory and will always have solid and deep teams. We went with the same lineup that we played against Maple Grove. Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Clay. Doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach, Andy Harris/Kenny.
Please keep in mind that my match was the last to finish today, so, for the most part, I wasn't aware of the matches coming off as I was playing, but I saw enough and talked to everyone after the match. Also, Edina's unorthodox court setup makes it difficult to see the doubles matches if you're playing singles and vice-versa.
The first two matches done today were #2 and #3 doubles. Zach and Andy Novak finished first, with a 6-2, 6-3 win. Andy Harris and Kenny also won shortly after, 6-1, 6-3. Edina took the next match at #1 doubles, with Brandon and Andrew Rust losing in two tight sets. Edina 1, Hopkins 2.
Meanwhile, the singles matches were going as usual. Ryan, Manny, and I won our first sets, while Clay dropped his. Manny finished his second set off pretty quickly, and won 6-2, 6-1. Clay and Ryan finished at about the same time, Clay was defeated, but Ryan won. Edina 1, Hopkins 4.
Ryan won just as my match was reaching its climax. I had won the first set 6-2, but I was then broken to begin the second set. My opponent, Kavir Kumar, was able to hold serve until he was serving for the set at 5-4. I held and went into the changeover up 6-5. He then regained some confidence on his serve and forced a tiebreak. I won the first three points, before dropping the next three. At the six-point changeover was when Ryan won his match. I then got another mini-break to go up 6-3, before he won both of his service points to get back to 6-5. With my first match point on my serve, I was able to finish it off with an ace.
Final score: Edina 2, Hopkins 5.
Although it doesn't mean much, this win gave us the Lake Conference title, which has gone to Edina almost every year in recent history. Tomorrow we have practice, and Coach Novak will be going to the section meeting tomorrow night, where the team and individual draws will be made. I'll post the link to the draws when they are made available.
Until then,
Michael
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Hopkins at Maple Grove
Today we finished off the week with a trip up North to Maple Grove. Any time schools outside the metro play a Lake Conference team, they always get fired up, so we knew it wouldn't be easy to come away with a victory.
Our lineup today was the same as Wednesday's match against SPA, with Clay at #4 singles. Manny (6-1. 6-3) won first, shortly followed by Ryan (6-0, 6-1) and then myself (6-0, 6-1). Maple Grove 0, Hopkins 3.
All three of our doubles teams won their first sets, a continuance of their good playing from the SPA match. However, Clay dropped his first, 6-1.
#1 doubles (Brandon/Rust) won next, 6-3, 6-4. This win was quickly followed by #3 (Kenny/Andy Harris), and then #2 (Andy Novak/Zach). Maple Grove 0, Hopkins 6.
Clay started to play much better towards the end of his second set, but came up short and lost the match 6-1, 6-3.
Final score: Maple Grove 1, Hopkins 6.
The match at Edina has been rescheduled for next Monday, it should be a great match.
Until then,
Michael
Our lineup today was the same as Wednesday's match against SPA, with Clay at #4 singles. Manny (6-1. 6-3) won first, shortly followed by Ryan (6-0, 6-1) and then myself (6-0, 6-1). Maple Grove 0, Hopkins 3.
All three of our doubles teams won their first sets, a continuance of their good playing from the SPA match. However, Clay dropped his first, 6-1.
#1 doubles (Brandon/Rust) won next, 6-3, 6-4. This win was quickly followed by #3 (Kenny/Andy Harris), and then #2 (Andy Novak/Zach). Maple Grove 0, Hopkins 6.
Clay started to play much better towards the end of his second set, but came up short and lost the match 6-1, 6-3.
Final score: Maple Grove 1, Hopkins 6.
The match at Edina has been rescheduled for next Monday, it should be a great match.
Until then,
Michael
Friday, May 13, 2011
Rainout
Sorry for the delay, blogspot was down for a little while yesterday and I didn't get the chance to post. Due to the rain, our match against Edina was cancelled, and has been rescheduled for Monday.
We've got an away match against Maple Grove today. We don't know much about them, but I've seen some of their results in the newspaper and they've beaten some good teams in their conference, so I'm sure they'll give us a tough battle to round out the week. After going to the Twins game tonight, I'll be sure to give a recap of the match.
Until then,
Michael
We've got an away match against Maple Grove today. We don't know much about them, but I've seen some of their results in the newspaper and they've beaten some good teams in their conference, so I'm sure they'll give us a tough battle to round out the week. After going to the Twins game tonight, I'll be sure to give a recap of the match.
Until then,
Michael
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Hopkins v St. Paul Academy
Today's match was our third in three days, the middle of a packed week. The opponent was St. Paul Academy, or SPA. They've always done well in the 1A (smaller schools) state tournament, and they're returning the 1A singles state champion, John Hill, so we knew we'd have our work cut out for us.
Similar to the match against Eden Prairie on Monday, SPA took their usual second and third singles players and put them into doubles positions. This equated to Manfred (6-0, 6-0) and I (6-0, 6-1) winning within seconds of each other, before most of the other matches had finished their first sets.
In the other five matches, we lost all of the first sets. Clay Thompson played #4 singles, the only change from yesterday's lineup. #3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny) forced a tiebreak in the second set, but fell short. Clay was the next one done. He fought really hard against an opponent who, to be honest, was obnoxious whenever he won a point. Hopkins 2, SPA 2.
Clay's opponent seemed to be the most vocal, but some others weren't far behind. I know a few of the SPA guys, and they're great. It's kind of frustrating to see a team that is so good to have to blemish their reputation and embarrass themselves by acting pretty childish. I hate to say that, but, as Coach Novak tells us, act like you've been there before.
Now, the only matches remaining were Ryan and #1 and #2 doubles. #2 (Zach/Andy Novak) won their second set to force a third, and then #1 (Brandon/Rust) followed suit. Meanwhile, Ryan went up 5-2 in his second set.
As the two doubles matches got going in their third sets, Ryan's match started to turn in John Hill's favor. Ryan wasn't necessarily playing badly, but John was serving consistently huge, and Ryan did start to miss more balls, and ended up losing the set in a tiebreak. Ryan wasn't too pleased about how he played, but John's a great player, no shame in losing to him, and I know Ryan will only improve in the next couple weeks. Hopkins 2, SPA 3.
After many ups and downs, both doubles matches found themselves knotted at five games apiece. #2 got a break to go up 6-5, and they held Zach's serve to close out the match. Unfortunately, a minute or two later, #1 lost their set, 7-5, in a similar manner. Both teams played extremely well, the scores could have gone either way for each match.
Final score: Hopkins 3, St. Paul Academy 4.
Tomorrow's match is against Edina, a team that we have been unable to beat for at least eight years, probably many more. Before I go study for my Macronomics and Micronomics AP tests tomorrow, I want to give a special shout-out to Noah Sussman, a proud Hopkins tennis alum who has come out to watch the last few matches. We always appreciate the support! The match tomorrow is away against Edina, followed by a trip to Maple Grove on Friday.
Until then,
Michael
Similar to the match against Eden Prairie on Monday, SPA took their usual second and third singles players and put them into doubles positions. This equated to Manfred (6-0, 6-0) and I (6-0, 6-1) winning within seconds of each other, before most of the other matches had finished their first sets.
In the other five matches, we lost all of the first sets. Clay Thompson played #4 singles, the only change from yesterday's lineup. #3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny) forced a tiebreak in the second set, but fell short. Clay was the next one done. He fought really hard against an opponent who, to be honest, was obnoxious whenever he won a point. Hopkins 2, SPA 2.
Clay's opponent seemed to be the most vocal, but some others weren't far behind. I know a few of the SPA guys, and they're great. It's kind of frustrating to see a team that is so good to have to blemish their reputation and embarrass themselves by acting pretty childish. I hate to say that, but, as Coach Novak tells us, act like you've been there before.
Now, the only matches remaining were Ryan and #1 and #2 doubles. #2 (Zach/Andy Novak) won their second set to force a third, and then #1 (Brandon/Rust) followed suit. Meanwhile, Ryan went up 5-2 in his second set.
As the two doubles matches got going in their third sets, Ryan's match started to turn in John Hill's favor. Ryan wasn't necessarily playing badly, but John was serving consistently huge, and Ryan did start to miss more balls, and ended up losing the set in a tiebreak. Ryan wasn't too pleased about how he played, but John's a great player, no shame in losing to him, and I know Ryan will only improve in the next couple weeks. Hopkins 2, SPA 3.
After many ups and downs, both doubles matches found themselves knotted at five games apiece. #2 got a break to go up 6-5, and they held Zach's serve to close out the match. Unfortunately, a minute or two later, #1 lost their set, 7-5, in a similar manner. Both teams played extremely well, the scores could have gone either way for each match.
Final score: Hopkins 3, St. Paul Academy 4.
Tomorrow's match is against Edina, a team that we have been unable to beat for at least eight years, probably many more. Before I go study for my Macronomics and Micronomics AP tests tomorrow, I want to give a special shout-out to Noah Sussman, a proud Hopkins tennis alum who has come out to watch the last few matches. We always appreciate the support! The match tomorrow is away against Edina, followed by a trip to Maple Grove on Friday.
Until then,
Michael
Hopkins v Benilde, St. Margaret's
Today's match against Benilde was a good opportunity to bounce back after our first loss of the season yesterday to Eden Prairie. Today's lineup was the same as yesterday's except for Jeremy Steinman at #4 singles and, after their win yesterday, Brandon and Rust were moved back up to #1 doubles.
The first completed match today was (finally) not a singles match. #2 doubles (Zach/Andy Novak) were off the court first, in a comprehensive win. This was followed by my victory at #2 singles and then Manny's at #3. Hopkins 3, Benilde 0.
Next off was #1 doubles, who, after winning their first set quickly, battled through a second to win in straight sets. #3 doubles had a very similar situation, and they were forced to a tiebreak in the second, before pulling out the victory.
Meanwhile, at #4 singles, Jeremy was having an up-and-down match. His match was right next to mine, so I was able to see a decent amount of it. He started off well, but lost a tight first set, and went down early in the second, and unfortunately wasn't able to come back. Hopkins 5, Benilde 1.
We actually haven't been able to win a match at #4 singles this year, with a rotation of players, but I know that win will come, as the match experience and practice will no doubt pay off soon.
Ryan's match was the last one on. He won the first set, and then fell down a break in the second, 4-1. He was then able to get the break back and eventually forced a second-set tiebreak. With both teams watching, Ryan came through and won the tiebreak to win the match.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Benilde, St. Margaret's 1.
We've got a tough opponent tomorrow in St. Paul Academy, again at home.
Until then,
Michael
The first completed match today was (finally) not a singles match. #2 doubles (Zach/Andy Novak) were off the court first, in a comprehensive win. This was followed by my victory at #2 singles and then Manny's at #3. Hopkins 3, Benilde 0.
Next off was #1 doubles, who, after winning their first set quickly, battled through a second to win in straight sets. #3 doubles had a very similar situation, and they were forced to a tiebreak in the second, before pulling out the victory.
Meanwhile, at #4 singles, Jeremy was having an up-and-down match. His match was right next to mine, so I was able to see a decent amount of it. He started off well, but lost a tight first set, and went down early in the second, and unfortunately wasn't able to come back. Hopkins 5, Benilde 1.
We actually haven't been able to win a match at #4 singles this year, with a rotation of players, but I know that win will come, as the match experience and practice will no doubt pay off soon.
Ryan's match was the last one on. He won the first set, and then fell down a break in the second, 4-1. He was then able to get the break back and eventually forced a second-set tiebreak. With both teams watching, Ryan came through and won the tiebreak to win the match.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Benilde, St. Margaret's 1.
We've got a tough opponent tomorrow in St. Paul Academy, again at home.
Until then,
Michael
Monday, May 9, 2011
Hopkins at Eden Prairie
Well, I knew the first loss of the season would come eventually. I'm glad it came today, rather than in a few weeks. On a warm and windy day today, we fell 4-3 to Eden Prairie.
Getting onto the bus today, we knew a very good team was awaiting us. EP won the state championship last year, and only lost one or two players from that team. Their lineup kind of baffled us, as they were missing their usual #2 singles player and decided to put their #3 and #4 singles players onto #1 and #3 doubles, respectively. After the lineups were announced and before everyone went out on the court, Ryan and I told the team to forget about lineups and matchups and just play your match. As I said to (the legendary) Ken Novak, Sr. after the match: "It is what it is." In other words, you can only play who you're playing.
Nevertheless, the first three matches done were reminiscent of the last few matches: I won at #2 singles, Manny won at #3, and Jackson lost at #4.
Normally, the matches are pretty easy to follow, because the scorecards on each court are flipped to show the score during each changeover. Today we had none. Nothing too major, but very inconvenient for everyone in attendance. My dad told me afterwards that an EP parent actually asked him to complain to the EP coach on his behalf. He said he would do it himself, but his son would get moved down in the lineup. Hmmm. Probably said jokingly, but that still doesn't hold the EP coach in a great light.
Due to the absence of the scorecards, it was difficult to follow all of the matches going on, but I gathered that Ryan had lost his first set, as had #1 doubles (Andy Novak/Zach) and #3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny). #2 doubles (Brandon/Rust) won their first.
All three doubles matches ended in straight sets. Eden Prairie 3, Hopkins 3.
Ryan's opponent today was Scott Elsass, who has unfortunately been struggling with a shoulder injury most of this season and has been able to play only on a limited basis. It certainly looked healthy today. Ryan battled in the first set, but lost it 6-4. After going down 4-1 in the second, Ryan again fought to get a break back and went into the changeover down 4-3. After Elsass held, Ryan's service game lasted for about fifteen minutes before finally being broken and lost the second, 6-3. I must add, though, that Ryan has not lost this year when he's worn his jersey the correct way. He played his entire match today with an inside-out shirt.
Final score: Eden Prairie 4, Hopkins 3.
EP is a great team, but we know we can beat them, and hopefully we'll get the opportunity later this month. As Coach Novak says, anytime you lose, you want to be able to play again right away. We've got that opportunity in a home match against Benilde St. Margaret's tomorrow.
Until then,
Michael
Getting onto the bus today, we knew a very good team was awaiting us. EP won the state championship last year, and only lost one or two players from that team. Their lineup kind of baffled us, as they were missing their usual #2 singles player and decided to put their #3 and #4 singles players onto #1 and #3 doubles, respectively. After the lineups were announced and before everyone went out on the court, Ryan and I told the team to forget about lineups and matchups and just play your match. As I said to (the legendary) Ken Novak, Sr. after the match: "It is what it is." In other words, you can only play who you're playing.
Nevertheless, the first three matches done were reminiscent of the last few matches: I won at #2 singles, Manny won at #3, and Jackson lost at #4.
Normally, the matches are pretty easy to follow, because the scorecards on each court are flipped to show the score during each changeover. Today we had none. Nothing too major, but very inconvenient for everyone in attendance. My dad told me afterwards that an EP parent actually asked him to complain to the EP coach on his behalf. He said he would do it himself, but his son would get moved down in the lineup. Hmmm. Probably said jokingly, but that still doesn't hold the EP coach in a great light.
Due to the absence of the scorecards, it was difficult to follow all of the matches going on, but I gathered that Ryan had lost his first set, as had #1 doubles (Andy Novak/Zach) and #3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny). #2 doubles (Brandon/Rust) won their first.
All three doubles matches ended in straight sets. Eden Prairie 3, Hopkins 3.
Ryan's opponent today was Scott Elsass, who has unfortunately been struggling with a shoulder injury most of this season and has been able to play only on a limited basis. It certainly looked healthy today. Ryan battled in the first set, but lost it 6-4. After going down 4-1 in the second, Ryan again fought to get a break back and went into the changeover down 4-3. After Elsass held, Ryan's service game lasted for about fifteen minutes before finally being broken and lost the second, 6-3. I must add, though, that Ryan has not lost this year when he's worn his jersey the correct way. He played his entire match today with an inside-out shirt.
Final score: Eden Prairie 4, Hopkins 3.
EP is a great team, but we know we can beat them, and hopefully we'll get the opportunity later this month. As Coach Novak says, anytime you lose, you want to be able to play again right away. We've got that opportunity in a home match against Benilde St. Margaret's tomorrow.
Until then,
Michael
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Congratulations, Coach
Today's match against Eden Prairie was postponed until next Monday, due to some of our players not being available.
Also not being available this weekend will be Coach Novak. He will be in Las Vegas receiving this award: http://rise.espn.go.com/boys-basketball/articles/2011/05/02-coach-of-the-year.aspx He doesn't seem to want to make a big deal of it, so the only thing I'll say is this: I believe that he could coach any sport at any level and be extremely successful. We're lucky to have him here at Hopkins.
For practice tomorrow, we'll be welcoming back a familiar face, Ali King (formerly Ali Barnett)! She, of course, had coached Ryan and I for the last five years, but is taking a maternity leave for this season. She'll be covering for Novak tomorrow, and we're excited to see her.
The moving of the EP match, on top of all of the other rescheduled matches due to rain, means that we will have matches every day next week:
Monday: Hopkins at Eden Prairie
Tuesday: Hopkins v Benilde St. Margaret's
Wednesday: Hopkins v St. Paul Academy
Thursday: Hopkins at Edina
Friday: Hopkins at Maple Grove
These are the final regular-season matches, and every one should be a tough test. For all of those going to prom on Saturday (even I managed to find a date!): be safe and don't be stupid. Eden Prairie should be epic, and I'll be back to give a recap of the match on Monday.
Until then,
Michael
Also not being available this weekend will be Coach Novak. He will be in Las Vegas receiving this award: http://rise.espn.go.com/boys-basketball/articles/2011/05/02-coach-of-the-year.aspx He doesn't seem to want to make a big deal of it, so the only thing I'll say is this: I believe that he could coach any sport at any level and be extremely successful. We're lucky to have him here at Hopkins.
For practice tomorrow, we'll be welcoming back a familiar face, Ali King (formerly Ali Barnett)! She, of course, had coached Ryan and I for the last five years, but is taking a maternity leave for this season. She'll be covering for Novak tomorrow, and we're excited to see her.
The moving of the EP match, on top of all of the other rescheduled matches due to rain, means that we will have matches every day next week:
Monday: Hopkins at Eden Prairie
Tuesday: Hopkins v Benilde St. Margaret's
Wednesday: Hopkins v St. Paul Academy
Thursday: Hopkins at Edina
Friday: Hopkins at Maple Grove
These are the final regular-season matches, and every one should be a tough test. For all of those going to prom on Saturday (even I managed to find a date!): be safe and don't be stupid. Eden Prairie should be epic, and I'll be back to give a recap of the match on Monday.
Until then,
Michael
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Hopkins v Wayzata
Today was our seventh match of the season, and we managed to earn our seventh victory. The win against Wayzata today was far from easy. They came in as the top-ranked team in the state, and we could see why they're getting so much attention. They've always been a deep team with strong doubles players, and this year is no exception.
We went with the same lineup as yesterday: Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Jackson; doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach Miller, Kenny/Andy Harris.
Unfortunately, Jackson was the first done today, and his result was the same as yesterday. As I told him after the match today, I believe that he didn't attack and come to the net enough, whereas he tried to come into the net a little too much yesterday.
Next off was #1 doubles, a Wayzata victory. Hopkins 0, Wayzata 2.
We then evened the score up at 2, with a victory by Manny at #3, and then me at #2. Now, with three matches remaining, the match could have gone either way.
Both #2 and #3 doubles split their first two sets, and were beginning their thirds, while Ryan won his first set in a tiebreak and was up 5-2 in the second. #3 (Kenny/Andy Harris) had battled back to win their second set after losing the first, but lost the third, 0-6. Hopkins 2, Wayzata 3.
Now, just Ryan and #2 doubles (Andy Novak/Zach Miller) were still playing. Andy and Zach got an early break and maintained it until they were broken back at 4-4. But they got the break right back, and went into the changeover 5-4, with Zach to serve. Just as they began the tenth game of the set, Ryan lost his second set. I must say that today's match was uncharacteristic of Ryan, losing the second set after being up 5-2, but I was still confident that he would pull it out in the third.
Zach and Andy wasted no time holding Zach's serve and closing out the set and the match. Now, with the match knotted at 3, the team battle came down to Ryan's final set against Dustin Britton.
From the start of the third set, we could tell that Ryan was a man on a mission. I don't know for sure, but I'd bet that Ryan was completely aware of the team's situation. Dustin definitely didn't play badly, as the first two sets' scores show, but Ryan proved too much in the third: 6-0.
Final score: Hopkins 4, Wayzata 3.
Today's victory was great, but as Coach Novak told us afterwards: we can celebreate a little today, but the results only really matter during the section tournament. We've got a scrimmage at Mounds View tomorrow, a top team in the state, including the top-ranked player, Wyatt McCoy.
Until then,
Michael
We went with the same lineup as yesterday: Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Jackson; doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach Miller, Kenny/Andy Harris.
Unfortunately, Jackson was the first done today, and his result was the same as yesterday. As I told him after the match today, I believe that he didn't attack and come to the net enough, whereas he tried to come into the net a little too much yesterday.
Next off was #1 doubles, a Wayzata victory. Hopkins 0, Wayzata 2.
We then evened the score up at 2, with a victory by Manny at #3, and then me at #2. Now, with three matches remaining, the match could have gone either way.
Both #2 and #3 doubles split their first two sets, and were beginning their thirds, while Ryan won his first set in a tiebreak and was up 5-2 in the second. #3 (Kenny/Andy Harris) had battled back to win their second set after losing the first, but lost the third, 0-6. Hopkins 2, Wayzata 3.
Now, just Ryan and #2 doubles (Andy Novak/Zach Miller) were still playing. Andy and Zach got an early break and maintained it until they were broken back at 4-4. But they got the break right back, and went into the changeover 5-4, with Zach to serve. Just as they began the tenth game of the set, Ryan lost his second set. I must say that today's match was uncharacteristic of Ryan, losing the second set after being up 5-2, but I was still confident that he would pull it out in the third.
Zach and Andy wasted no time holding Zach's serve and closing out the set and the match. Now, with the match knotted at 3, the team battle came down to Ryan's final set against Dustin Britton.
From the start of the third set, we could tell that Ryan was a man on a mission. I don't know for sure, but I'd bet that Ryan was completely aware of the team's situation. Dustin definitely didn't play badly, as the first two sets' scores show, but Ryan proved too much in the third: 6-0.
Final score: Hopkins 4, Wayzata 3.
Today's victory was great, but as Coach Novak told us afterwards: we can celebreate a little today, but the results only really matter during the section tournament. We've got a scrimmage at Mounds View tomorrow, a top team in the state, including the top-ranked player, Wyatt McCoy.
Until then,
Michael
Hopkins at Saint Louis Park
After we had the weekend off, we started off a big week at Saint Louis Park.
In past years, SLP has been very strong, and they were able to beat us a few years ago. However, this year is a rebuilding year for them.
Today's lineup was as follows: Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Jackson (first varsity match); doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach, Kenny Novak/Andy Harris.
The match was pretty quick, with all matches ending in straight sets. We won all of the matches except for Jackson at #4 singles. It was his first match, so I'm sure he was a little nervous. He definitely gained some great experience, though.
Hopkins 6, St. Louis Park 1.
We've got a huge one against Wayzata tomorrow. As Novak always says, the results only matter during sections, but a win tomorrow could give us the top seed in the section tournament.
Until then,
Michael
In past years, SLP has been very strong, and they were able to beat us a few years ago. However, this year is a rebuilding year for them.
Today's lineup was as follows: Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Jackson (first varsity match); doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach, Kenny Novak/Andy Harris.
The match was pretty quick, with all matches ending in straight sets. We won all of the matches except for Jackson at #4 singles. It was his first match, so I'm sure he was a little nervous. He definitely gained some great experience, though.
Hopkins 6, St. Louis Park 1.
We've got a huge one against Wayzata tomorrow. As Novak always says, the results only matter during sections, but a win tomorrow could give us the top seed in the section tournament.
Until then,
Michael
Friday, April 29, 2011
Hopkins v Spring Lake Park
Coming off yesterday's great victory, we were excited to have the chance to close out the week with another good performance. Today's opponent was Spring Lake Park. Not exactly a historic tennis powerhouse, but all smaller schools bring their 'A' game against Lake Coference teams.
With Jeremy Steinman out of town this weekend, we altered the lineup again today. Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Kenny. Doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach Miller, Andy Harris/Clay.
Ryan and I told the team in our pre-match pep talk that we needed to really attack, and not hope that the match would be handed to us. Some players seemed to take that mentality, others got off to a slow start.
Ryan, Manny, and I all won our first sets pretty quickly, as did #1 and #2 doubles. However, Kenny lost his first before I won mine, and #3 dubs was locked in a tight set. Our top two doubles teams finished first, followed by Manny, myself, and then Ryan.
It was obvious watching Kenny that he hadn't played a singles match in a while. He's practiced with us a little bit, but a match is very different. He actually didn't play too badly, but he got down on himself too quickly and lost in straight sets.
#3 doubes fought to a 7-5 first set win, and won their second comprehensively.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Spring Lake Park 1.
Coach Novak gave us the day off tomorrow, which I definitely welcomed after my three-hour marathon win yesterday. We've got four matches in a row next week, starting with St. Louis Park on Monday, followed by Wayzata, Mounds View, and Eden Prairie.
Until then,
Michael
With Jeremy Steinman out of town this weekend, we altered the lineup again today. Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Kenny. Doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach Miller, Andy Harris/Clay.
Ryan and I told the team in our pre-match pep talk that we needed to really attack, and not hope that the match would be handed to us. Some players seemed to take that mentality, others got off to a slow start.
Ryan, Manny, and I all won our first sets pretty quickly, as did #1 and #2 doubles. However, Kenny lost his first before I won mine, and #3 dubs was locked in a tight set. Our top two doubles teams finished first, followed by Manny, myself, and then Ryan.
It was obvious watching Kenny that he hadn't played a singles match in a while. He's practiced with us a little bit, but a match is very different. He actually didn't play too badly, but he got down on himself too quickly and lost in straight sets.
#3 doubes fought to a 7-5 first set win, and won their second comprehensively.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Spring Lake Park 1.
Coach Novak gave us the day off tomorrow, which I definitely welcomed after my three-hour marathon win yesterday. We've got four matches in a row next week, starting with St. Louis Park on Monday, followed by Wayzata, Mounds View, and Eden Prairie.
Until then,
Michael
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Hopkins at Minneapolis South ("The Battle")
Wow. Whether it be rain-soaked courts, three-hour matches, or coaches' tempers flaring at each other, today's match had it all.
It was a blustery day, and when we arrived at Powderhorn Park, the courts were wet enough that Coach Novak and South's coach were trying to plan another date to play. In the end, we couldn't find another day to play, so we decided to wait it out. The courts did dry, and we started around 4:15. However, the park only has five courts, meaning that #4 singles (Andy Harris) and #3 doubles (Jeremy Steinman/Clay Thompson) had to wait until other matches finished in order to start.
There is no doubt that South is a very good team. They eliminated us from the section tournament (in the semi-finals) last year. But, they don't have the greatest reputation in high school tennis. Apart from a history of iffy lineups (playing weaker players higher up in order to win at lower positions), South is very loud on the court. Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong with cheering, and I encourage it. After all, high school tennis is a team sport. This being said, the level of noise the South players produce is borderline obnoxious. Note: this may be my opinion, but it is shared by a majority of the Minnesota high school tennis community.
Now, to today's match. Due to Kenny's band concert, and some other adjustments, our lineup was a little different today. #1-4 singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Andy Harris. #1 doubles: Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust, #2: Zach Miller/Andy Novak, #3: Jeremy Steinman/Clay Thompson (Clay's first varsity match).
Initially, all five matches were tight, except for Manny's 6-0 first set. Both Ryan and I went to first set tiebreaks: Ryan lost, I won. #1 doubles lost their first and #2 won theirs. Again, #4 singles and #3 doubles had to wait.
As the match went on, the weather got a little nicer, and the matches became more intense. Ryan and I had tried to prepare the team for this match, we knew exactly what to expect. The team seemed to take a little while to find a groove, but we got moving in our second sets. #1 dubs won their second set, Manny's opponent tried to stage a comeback, but Manny won in straight sets, and #2 dubs closed out their match. Hopkins 2, South 0.
As Andy and #3 doubles began to warm up, Ryan and I were locked in tight matches. Ryan played Noah Sprinkel, and I played Noah's brother, Jesse. Ryan won his second set to push his match to a third and final set. My set lasted longer, and after having five or six (don't know exactly) match points on Jesse's serve at 5-4, I ended up losing the set in a tiebreak, 8-6. I've got to give a ton of credit to Jesse, every match point I had, he would come up with incredibly clutch shots.
Andy Harris lost to South's #4 in a tight match. Although he started over an hour after us, Andy was off the court before Ryan or I finished. Just after Andy lost, #1 doubles lost in their third set. Hopkins 2, South 2.
I try not to pay too much attention to matches other than my own, but I must admit that I'm usually well aware of what is going on with the team. Ryan was on the court next to mine, and I was confident that he would close out his match in a third set. Sure enough, he took it, 6-3.
Meanwhile, I still had a match to play. I got an early break in the set, but at 4-3, I was broken back to even the set at 4-4. I managed to break him back, and had a chance to serve for the match. I told myself that I was annoyed with hitting ground strokes, so I decided to serve-and-volley on all of my points. Four points later, I had won the set 6-4. With only #3 doubles remaining, the score was Hopkins 4, South 2.
Shortly after finishing, I happened to check the time on my phone: 7:19. Three hours. Not very quick, but a win's a win. Unfortunately, in light of my band concert tonight, I (and Andy Harris) had to leave soon after my own match, but I did see #3 doubles battle back from a one-set deficit to win the second. They ended up losing the match, but Jeremy and Clay they got some invaluable experience today.
I hate to end on a bad note, but I must mention the altercation between coaches during the match. Coach Novak apparently said something to my opponent after he did made a comment to Novak. The South coach found out, and while my match was going on, their argument escalated. I don't know all of the details, but I'm sure it was a case of overreaction from both sides.
Final score: Hopkins 4, Minneapolis South 3.
After today's great win, we've got to regroup for tomorrow's home match against Spring Lake Park.
Until then,
Michael
It was a blustery day, and when we arrived at Powderhorn Park, the courts were wet enough that Coach Novak and South's coach were trying to plan another date to play. In the end, we couldn't find another day to play, so we decided to wait it out. The courts did dry, and we started around 4:15. However, the park only has five courts, meaning that #4 singles (Andy Harris) and #3 doubles (Jeremy Steinman/Clay Thompson) had to wait until other matches finished in order to start.
There is no doubt that South is a very good team. They eliminated us from the section tournament (in the semi-finals) last year. But, they don't have the greatest reputation in high school tennis. Apart from a history of iffy lineups (playing weaker players higher up in order to win at lower positions), South is very loud on the court. Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong with cheering, and I encourage it. After all, high school tennis is a team sport. This being said, the level of noise the South players produce is borderline obnoxious. Note: this may be my opinion, but it is shared by a majority of the Minnesota high school tennis community.
Now, to today's match. Due to Kenny's band concert, and some other adjustments, our lineup was a little different today. #1-4 singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Andy Harris. #1 doubles: Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust, #2: Zach Miller/Andy Novak, #3: Jeremy Steinman/Clay Thompson (Clay's first varsity match).
Initially, all five matches were tight, except for Manny's 6-0 first set. Both Ryan and I went to first set tiebreaks: Ryan lost, I won. #1 doubles lost their first and #2 won theirs. Again, #4 singles and #3 doubles had to wait.
As the match went on, the weather got a little nicer, and the matches became more intense. Ryan and I had tried to prepare the team for this match, we knew exactly what to expect. The team seemed to take a little while to find a groove, but we got moving in our second sets. #1 dubs won their second set, Manny's opponent tried to stage a comeback, but Manny won in straight sets, and #2 dubs closed out their match. Hopkins 2, South 0.
As Andy and #3 doubles began to warm up, Ryan and I were locked in tight matches. Ryan played Noah Sprinkel, and I played Noah's brother, Jesse. Ryan won his second set to push his match to a third and final set. My set lasted longer, and after having five or six (don't know exactly) match points on Jesse's serve at 5-4, I ended up losing the set in a tiebreak, 8-6. I've got to give a ton of credit to Jesse, every match point I had, he would come up with incredibly clutch shots.
Andy Harris lost to South's #4 in a tight match. Although he started over an hour after us, Andy was off the court before Ryan or I finished. Just after Andy lost, #1 doubles lost in their third set. Hopkins 2, South 2.
I try not to pay too much attention to matches other than my own, but I must admit that I'm usually well aware of what is going on with the team. Ryan was on the court next to mine, and I was confident that he would close out his match in a third set. Sure enough, he took it, 6-3.
Meanwhile, I still had a match to play. I got an early break in the set, but at 4-3, I was broken back to even the set at 4-4. I managed to break him back, and had a chance to serve for the match. I told myself that I was annoyed with hitting ground strokes, so I decided to serve-and-volley on all of my points. Four points later, I had won the set 6-4. With only #3 doubles remaining, the score was Hopkins 4, South 2.
Shortly after finishing, I happened to check the time on my phone: 7:19. Three hours. Not very quick, but a win's a win. Unfortunately, in light of my band concert tonight, I (and Andy Harris) had to leave soon after my own match, but I did see #3 doubles battle back from a one-set deficit to win the second. They ended up losing the match, but Jeremy and Clay they got some invaluable experience today.
I hate to end on a bad note, but I must mention the altercation between coaches during the match. Coach Novak apparently said something to my opponent after he did made a comment to Novak. The South coach found out, and while my match was going on, their argument escalated. I don't know all of the details, but I'm sure it was a case of overreaction from both sides.
Final score: Hopkins 4, Minneapolis South 3.
After today's great win, we've got to regroup for tomorrow's home match against Spring Lake Park.
Until then,
Michael
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Hopkins v Minnetonka (Finally!)
After a true rainstorm postponed our match against Eden Prairie yesterday, we had another tough Lake Conference matchup against Minnetonka today.
To be honest, I was worried going into today's match. I know every other team is in the same boat as us, but we hadn't played a match for a few weeks, and our indoor practice facility is far less than ideal. That being said, I was so excited to see our team, especially doubles guys, come out focused, intense, and ready to play.
Jeremy Steinman played 14 singles today, and fought to the end, but his match was the first over, and it was a win for Tonka. But just after he finished, #2 doubles (Zach Miller/Andy Novak), who I could see through the fence behind my court, won comprehensively.
Less than an hour gone, Hopkins 1, Minnetonka 1.
Then, #1 dubs (Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust) closed out their match, putting us in the lead. The next match done was my own. I felt that I was playing extremely well during the first set, and won it 6-2. The second was much tougher, as my opponent battled hard, but I managed to finish it off, 6-4.
Earlier in the week, Coach Novak mentioned that the Star Tribune had contacted him about his story on the ridiculous toughness and depth of Lake Conference tennis. Normally, I wouldn't really care (although in no way will say that I don't "read the headlines." I love when our team gets a little press.) but Novak mentioned that the reporter told him something interesting: the Minnetonka coach told the reporter that he didn't believe his #3 singles player would lose a match all season
Obviously, the coach was not aware of Manfred Barrios. Just after I finished, Manny took down Tonka's #3, 6-1, 6-4. Now the wins were rolling in: #3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny Novak) came away victorious, our fifth win of the day.
Now, the only match left was Ryan. His opponent today was Michael Tebon, a great player that is fun to watch because of his serve-and-volley style that is sadly now hard to find. Ryan took a little while to find a rhythm, but dug deep and won the first set in a tiebreaker, 7-6(7-5 in the breaker). I thoght that the second set would be just as close, but Ryan played steady (as always) and Tebon's confidence seemed to drop just a little bit after losing the close set. Ryan took advantage, and won the second set, 6-1.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Minnetonka 1.
Today's win was great, but we need to bring the same level of intensity and focus to tomorrow's match against Minneapolis South. It's our first away match of the year, and South is the team that beat us in the section tournament last year. They are very strong again this year, so it should be a good one.
Until then,
Michael
To be honest, I was worried going into today's match. I know every other team is in the same boat as us, but we hadn't played a match for a few weeks, and our indoor practice facility is far less than ideal. That being said, I was so excited to see our team, especially doubles guys, come out focused, intense, and ready to play.
Jeremy Steinman played 14 singles today, and fought to the end, but his match was the first over, and it was a win for Tonka. But just after he finished, #2 doubles (Zach Miller/Andy Novak), who I could see through the fence behind my court, won comprehensively.
Less than an hour gone, Hopkins 1, Minnetonka 1.
Then, #1 dubs (Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust) closed out their match, putting us in the lead. The next match done was my own. I felt that I was playing extremely well during the first set, and won it 6-2. The second was much tougher, as my opponent battled hard, but I managed to finish it off, 6-4.
Earlier in the week, Coach Novak mentioned that the Star Tribune had contacted him about his story on the ridiculous toughness and depth of Lake Conference tennis. Normally, I wouldn't really care (although in no way will say that I don't "read the headlines." I love when our team gets a little press.) but Novak mentioned that the reporter told him something interesting: the Minnetonka coach told the reporter that he didn't believe his #3 singles player would lose a match all season
Obviously, the coach was not aware of Manfred Barrios. Just after I finished, Manny took down Tonka's #3, 6-1, 6-4. Now the wins were rolling in: #3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny Novak) came away victorious, our fifth win of the day.
Now, the only match left was Ryan. His opponent today was Michael Tebon, a great player that is fun to watch because of his serve-and-volley style that is sadly now hard to find. Ryan took a little while to find a rhythm, but dug deep and won the first set in a tiebreaker, 7-6(7-5 in the breaker). I thoght that the second set would be just as close, but Ryan played steady (as always) and Tebon's confidence seemed to drop just a little bit after losing the close set. Ryan took advantage, and won the second set, 6-1.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Minnetonka 1.
Today's win was great, but we need to bring the same level of intensity and focus to tomorrow's match against Minneapolis South. It's our first away match of the year, and South is the team that beat us in the section tournament last year. They are very strong again this year, so it should be a good one.
Until then,
Michael
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Big Week Ahead
Happy Easter! Once again, I have to play meteorologist: our scrimmage against Mounds View that was scheduled for last Friday was cancelled.
Personally, this was disappointing, because I may have had the chance to play against Mounds View's Wyatt Mccoy, who won the state singles title as an eighth grader and was a finalist as a freshman. He then took his next two years playing tournaments around the country, making him ineligible for high school tennis. He earned himself a tennis scholarship to the University of Notre Dame, and has now returned for his senior season. To beat the best, you must play the best, no?
Anyway, this upcoming week is chock-full of tough matches. Practice on Monday, followed by four matches in a row: Eden Prairie (defending state champions, conference foe), Minnetonka (a good top-ranked team made great by offseason transfers, conference foe), Minneapolis South (beat us in section semi-finals last year), and Spring Lake Park to round out the week.
I'll be posting after each match, so stay tuned!
Until then,
Michael
Personally, this was disappointing, because I may have had the chance to play against Mounds View's Wyatt Mccoy, who won the state singles title as an eighth grader and was a finalist as a freshman. He then took his next two years playing tournaments around the country, making him ineligible for high school tennis. He earned himself a tennis scholarship to the University of Notre Dame, and has now returned for his senior season. To beat the best, you must play the best, no?
Anyway, this upcoming week is chock-full of tough matches. Practice on Monday, followed by four matches in a row: Eden Prairie (defending state champions, conference foe), Minnetonka (a good top-ranked team made great by offseason transfers, conference foe), Minneapolis South (beat us in section semi-finals last year), and Spring Lake Park to round out the week.
I'll be posting after each match, so stay tuned!
Until then,
Michael
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Not Again!
Minnesotans tend to be optimistic about the weather. Yes, snow did accumulate overnight and continued into the morning, but all seemed confident that the snow would melt by the afternoon. All except for the powers-that-be at Benilde St. Margaret's, that is.
Coach Novak was notified before noon today that our match was postponed to a later date. Now I'm sure that the Benilde players wanted to play the match today, but this was obviously not the consensus among the adults.
Yes, it was under forty-five degrees today, but the wind was minimal and the conditions would have been more than fine to play a match.
None of us are mad, we just want to play a match! However, we were more than happy to get another day of practice in (outside, I might add.)
Another day of practice tomorrow, before a "scrimmage" against Mounds View on Friday. Notice the quotations. I plan on asking the MV coach a few questions on Friday, and I'll be sure to tell the story after the match.
Until then,
Michael
Coach Novak was notified before noon today that our match was postponed to a later date. Now I'm sure that the Benilde players wanted to play the match today, but this was obviously not the consensus among the adults.
Yes, it was under forty-five degrees today, but the wind was minimal and the conditions would have been more than fine to play a match.
None of us are mad, we just want to play a match! However, we were more than happy to get another day of practice in (outside, I might add.)
Another day of practice tomorrow, before a "scrimmage" against Mounds View on Friday. Notice the quotations. I plan on asking the MV coach a few questions on Friday, and I'll be sure to tell the story after the match.
Until then,
Michael
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
So Much for MN Tennis
Anyone that has played high school tennis in Minnesota can tell you that any day without wind or precipitation is perfect for playing tennis. Today's temperature hovered around 46.
I am fortunate enough to have a window in my third block classroom and saw neither wind nor precipitation. However, on my way back from lunch, I ran into Coach Novak in the hallway. He told me that Minnetonka wanted to cancel.
So disappointing!! Once we got moving, I'm sure that shorts and a t-shirt would have sufficed during today's match. It's okay, though, we had a pretty good day of practice, and we're ready for Benilde tomorrow. This will be our third match against a private school, again at home.
I realized today that I neglected to wish everyone a Happy Passover, or פסח שמח (Pesach sameach). Tonight is the second night of the eight-day Jewish holiday. Over the next week, I (along with all other Jews)won't be eating leavened bread (cookies, crackers, cereal, etc.) so I may have to increase my daily banana intake to three, instead of two. I love my bananas!
Hopefully the snow stays away and our match will be on tomorrow.
Until then,
Michael
I am fortunate enough to have a window in my third block classroom and saw neither wind nor precipitation. However, on my way back from lunch, I ran into Coach Novak in the hallway. He told me that Minnetonka wanted to cancel.
So disappointing!! Once we got moving, I'm sure that shorts and a t-shirt would have sufficed during today's match. It's okay, though, we had a pretty good day of practice, and we're ready for Benilde tomorrow. This will be our third match against a private school, again at home.
I realized today that I neglected to wish everyone a Happy Passover, or פסח שמח (Pesach sameach). Tonight is the second night of the eight-day Jewish holiday. Over the next week, I (along with all other Jews)won't be eating leavened bread (cookies, crackers, cereal, etc.) so I may have to increase my daily banana intake to three, instead of two. I love my bananas!
Hopefully the snow stays away and our match will be on tomorrow.
Until then,
Michael
Monday, April 18, 2011
Happy Patriots' Day!
Good afternoon everyone,
I apologize for my weekend hiatus. I had matters to attend to (asking a female to prom and watching endless soccer on television). To honor my family's Boston roots, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful Patriots' day: the holiday in Massachusetts that is celebrating by the running of the Boston marathon and a morning Red Sox game.
Our scheduled match against Spring Lake Park on Friday was postponed due to terrible weather. Driving on Friday night made me think that it was still winter. Thankfully, the snow melted by Sunday afternoon.
The weather is looking ominous all week, but Coach Novak mentioned to me at school today that he will be talking to the Minnetonka coach and we may try to play our match indoors tomorrow.
This week's schedule:
Tuesday, April 19: Hopkins v Minnetonka
Wednesday, April 20: Hopkins v Benilde St. Margaret's
Friday, April 22: Mounds View v Hopkins
NOTE: Per soccer games, the home team is always listed first.
I'll be back tomorrow with the results of the match against Minnetonka, our first Lake Conference match and a big test, especially for our singles players.
Until then,
Michael
I apologize for my weekend hiatus. I had matters to attend to (asking a female to prom and watching endless soccer on television). To honor my family's Boston roots, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful Patriots' day: the holiday in Massachusetts that is celebrating by the running of the Boston marathon and a morning Red Sox game.
Our scheduled match against Spring Lake Park on Friday was postponed due to terrible weather. Driving on Friday night made me think that it was still winter. Thankfully, the snow melted by Sunday afternoon.
The weather is looking ominous all week, but Coach Novak mentioned to me at school today that he will be talking to the Minnetonka coach and we may try to play our match indoors tomorrow.
This week's schedule:
Tuesday, April 19: Hopkins v Minnetonka
Wednesday, April 20: Hopkins v Benilde St. Margaret's
Friday, April 22: Mounds View v Hopkins
NOTE: Per soccer games, the home team is always listed first.
I'll be back tomorrow with the results of the match against Minnetonka, our first Lake Conference match and a big test, especially for our singles players.
Until then,
Michael
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Hopkins v Blake
The undefeated season survives another day! Today's match was a true battle, we came through with a 4-3 win. Big ups to #3 doubles (Kenny Novak/Andy Harris), who, with the team's match on the line, won their match 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.
Like Coach Novak said to us after the match, even if we had lost, there were many positives to take from today. What seemed uncertain at the beginning of our year has turned into our strength: #2 (Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust) and #3 doubles took charge and won their matches. Despite their loss, #1 doubles (Zach Miller, Andy Novak) also played very well.
After being the first one off the court yesterday, I was feeling good coming into my own match today. Playing #2 singles again, I was pretty content with my performance, and thought I fought well, but I lost 2-6, 3-6. I think I've found the reason for my defeat: I forgot my high socks! Like every pro tennis player (except Mardy Fish, of Edina) that wears high socks, I don't remember the last time I played with low-cut socks! I'm just kidding, I've got to give credit to Kai Skallerud, my opponent today, who thoroughly deserved to win.
It was tough for me to see Jeremy Steinman, playing his first varsity singles match at #4, put in a great effort, but lost his match pretty handily. Before I finished, I saw #2 doubles come away victorious and #1 fall short, so after my match ended, the score was: Blake 3, Hopkins 1.
Just after I finished, Ryan, playing #1 singles, finished off his match in straight sets, doubling our team's score. Now, with just Manfred (#4 singles) and #3 doubles remaining, we needed both matches to earn a team victory. Both teams were crowded around the fence by the doubles, but everyone was keeping an eye on the singles match. After winning his first set, Manny was in a second-set deadlock. Up 4-3 and serving, he was broken (lost the game while serving) and ended up going down 5-4. But he got the break back, and was back on top, 6-5, at the next changeover.
Meanwhile, #3 doubles, had won their second set 6-1 after dropping the first 4-6. Now in the third, the match was dead even at 3-3 in the set. Just as they earned a break point in the seventh game of the set, Manny let out a big "LET'S GO!!" meaning that we had just tied the team's match at 3-3.
Andy and Kenny capitalized on the break point and went into the changeover up 4-3. After a few words of wisdom from Coach Novak, they went on to hold Kenny's serve and break to win the match. Final score: Hopkins 4, Blake 3.
After taking down the second-ranked team in state yesterday, we followed it up with a defeat of the sixth-ranked squad.
Spring Lake Park on Friday, again at home. It's supposed to snow, but hopefully that stays away and we have another beautiful day for tennis.
Until then,
Michael
Like Coach Novak said to us after the match, even if we had lost, there were many positives to take from today. What seemed uncertain at the beginning of our year has turned into our strength: #2 (Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust) and #3 doubles took charge and won their matches. Despite their loss, #1 doubles (Zach Miller, Andy Novak) also played very well.
After being the first one off the court yesterday, I was feeling good coming into my own match today. Playing #2 singles again, I was pretty content with my performance, and thought I fought well, but I lost 2-6, 3-6. I think I've found the reason for my defeat: I forgot my high socks! Like every pro tennis player (except Mardy Fish, of Edina) that wears high socks, I don't remember the last time I played with low-cut socks! I'm just kidding, I've got to give credit to Kai Skallerud, my opponent today, who thoroughly deserved to win.
It was tough for me to see Jeremy Steinman, playing his first varsity singles match at #4, put in a great effort, but lost his match pretty handily. Before I finished, I saw #2 doubles come away victorious and #1 fall short, so after my match ended, the score was: Blake 3, Hopkins 1.
Just after I finished, Ryan, playing #1 singles, finished off his match in straight sets, doubling our team's score. Now, with just Manfred (#4 singles) and #3 doubles remaining, we needed both matches to earn a team victory. Both teams were crowded around the fence by the doubles, but everyone was keeping an eye on the singles match. After winning his first set, Manny was in a second-set deadlock. Up 4-3 and serving, he was broken (lost the game while serving) and ended up going down 5-4. But he got the break back, and was back on top, 6-5, at the next changeover.
Meanwhile, #3 doubles, had won their second set 6-1 after dropping the first 4-6. Now in the third, the match was dead even at 3-3 in the set. Just as they earned a break point in the seventh game of the set, Manny let out a big "LET'S GO!!" meaning that we had just tied the team's match at 3-3.
Andy and Kenny capitalized on the break point and went into the changeover up 4-3. After a few words of wisdom from Coach Novak, they went on to hold Kenny's serve and break to win the match. Final score: Hopkins 4, Blake 3.
After taking down the second-ranked team in state yesterday, we followed it up with a defeat of the sixth-ranked squad.
Spring Lake Park on Friday, again at home. It's supposed to snow, but hopefully that stays away and we have another beautiful day for tennis.
Until then,
Michael
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Hopkins v Breck
Not a bad way to start the season! We prevailed today with a 5-2 win over Breck, who, according to the Star Tribune, was the pre-season second-ranked team in the state.
Coach Novak had been stressing the UNimportance of this match, something that I definitely understand, but find it difficult to express. He wants us to realize that we are practicing for the end of the season, for the section tournament.
That being said, we knew this match was a great opportunity to jump-start our season. Personally, this was my first time playing singles in high school in two years, after playing #1 doubles all of last year.
Let me take a minute to explain how high school tennis works, for those who aren't familiar with the system. For each team match, a lineup of ten players is selected. Four players play singles, the top player playing #1 singles, down to #4. The other six players make up three doubles teams, from #1 doubles to #3. Each individual match is worth one point for the team's score. Therefore, every match is out of seven points, and a team must win four matches to earn a team win.
Now back to today. We knew our singles lineup would be strong, with Ryan at #1, followed by myself, Manny, and Andy Harris. We were confident in doubles too, but it's always tricky at the beginning of a season when everyone is trying to get accustomed to new partners.
Tennis is an individual sport, but you wouldn't know it if you came to a high school match. Just as matches begin to start, everyone is cheering on their teammates across the courts. During my matches, I obviously try to focus on my own match as much as possible, but I am usually aware of how my teammates are doing.
My match actually finished first; I won 6-1,6-1. Definitely a great start to my personal season. But it's all about the team. A parent actually said to me after I told her my result, "great, so you can relax now!" Quite the opposite, in fact. I was happy to have done my part, but now we needed to win three more matches to earn a team win, and the other matches are pretty much out of my control.
When I got off the court, I realized that everyone, except for Andy at #4, had won their opening sets. Manny was the next to come off, and it was good to see him and his opponent talking casually after Manny beat him. I like to say (actually came from Andre Agassi) that tennis is like boxing, where the mental combat replaces the physical combat.
In the meantime, all three doubles teams lost their second sets, and Andy won his, meaning we would have four matches heading to third and deciding sets. Ryan kept on battling and came back from 3-0 down in the second to win the set in a tiebreaker. Match score: Hopkins 3, Breck 0.
The score would seem to indicate our control of the match, but with all four remaining matches in third sets, we could lose, just as likely as winning 7-0. #3 doubles, Kenny Novak and Jeremy Steinman, went down 3-0 early in the third set, but fought back well to win and clinch the match for us. #2 (Brandon Rabinowitz, Andy Novak) won shortly afterwards, bringing the team score to Hopkins 5, Breck 0.
Andy Harris and #1 doubles (Zach Miller, Andrew Rust) continued to fight, but came up just short, both falling in their third sets. Final score: Hopkins 5, Breck 2.
As Coach Novak continues to tell us, results do not matter at this point in the season, but it was great to get this first win, especially with the doubles teams playing well and gaining some confidence. We've got a big test tomorrow, against another local private school: Blake.
Until then,
Michael
Coach Novak had been stressing the UNimportance of this match, something that I definitely understand, but find it difficult to express. He wants us to realize that we are practicing for the end of the season, for the section tournament.
That being said, we knew this match was a great opportunity to jump-start our season. Personally, this was my first time playing singles in high school in two years, after playing #1 doubles all of last year.
Let me take a minute to explain how high school tennis works, for those who aren't familiar with the system. For each team match, a lineup of ten players is selected. Four players play singles, the top player playing #1 singles, down to #4. The other six players make up three doubles teams, from #1 doubles to #3. Each individual match is worth one point for the team's score. Therefore, every match is out of seven points, and a team must win four matches to earn a team win.
Now back to today. We knew our singles lineup would be strong, with Ryan at #1, followed by myself, Manny, and Andy Harris. We were confident in doubles too, but it's always tricky at the beginning of a season when everyone is trying to get accustomed to new partners.
Tennis is an individual sport, but you wouldn't know it if you came to a high school match. Just as matches begin to start, everyone is cheering on their teammates across the courts. During my matches, I obviously try to focus on my own match as much as possible, but I am usually aware of how my teammates are doing.
My match actually finished first; I won 6-1,6-1. Definitely a great start to my personal season. But it's all about the team. A parent actually said to me after I told her my result, "great, so you can relax now!" Quite the opposite, in fact. I was happy to have done my part, but now we needed to win three more matches to earn a team win, and the other matches are pretty much out of my control.
When I got off the court, I realized that everyone, except for Andy at #4, had won their opening sets. Manny was the next to come off, and it was good to see him and his opponent talking casually after Manny beat him. I like to say (actually came from Andre Agassi) that tennis is like boxing, where the mental combat replaces the physical combat.
In the meantime, all three doubles teams lost their second sets, and Andy won his, meaning we would have four matches heading to third and deciding sets. Ryan kept on battling and came back from 3-0 down in the second to win the set in a tiebreaker. Match score: Hopkins 3, Breck 0.
The score would seem to indicate our control of the match, but with all four remaining matches in third sets, we could lose, just as likely as winning 7-0. #3 doubles, Kenny Novak and Jeremy Steinman, went down 3-0 early in the third set, but fought back well to win and clinch the match for us. #2 (Brandon Rabinowitz, Andy Novak) won shortly afterwards, bringing the team score to Hopkins 5, Breck 0.
Andy Harris and #1 doubles (Zach Miller, Andrew Rust) continued to fight, but came up just short, both falling in their third sets. Final score: Hopkins 5, Breck 2.
As Coach Novak continues to tell us, results do not matter at this point in the season, but it was great to get this first win, especially with the doubles teams playing well and gaining some confidence. We've got a big test tomorrow, against another local private school: Blake.
Until then,
Michael
Welcome!
Hello everyone, and welcome to my blog about the Hopkins Royals Boys' Tennis team. My name is Michael Fields, and I'll be chronicling the team's season from an inside perspective. This is my sixth season as a member of the varsity tennis team. My co-captain, Ryan Erickson, and I are looking to cap our high school tennis careers with a successful season.
For the last five years, Hopkins tennis had been synonymous with Ali Barnett (after her recent marriage, Ali King). Ali was our head coach, and we loved having her, but due to a new addition to her family, she will not be coaching us this year. Her son Levi was born this fall, and Mr. Ken Novak will be taking over as coach for this season.
Despite his impressive basketball teams and recent state championships, Coach Novak has a few strong connections to tennis. First of all, his two sons, Andy, a sophomore, and Kenny, a freshman, have been on the team for three years. He also coached the Hopkins girls to a state championship in 1994. Among the members of that team was a certain seventh-grader: Ali Barnett.
Ryan is coming off an undefeated season, in which he won every match at #2 singles, and then partnered with Mac Gyswyt to win the doubles state championship. Mac now plays college tennis at Gustavus Adolphus University.
Ryan and I are among the team's five seniors. In addition to us, there is Brandon Rabinowitz, Andy Harris, and Duncan McConnell. Our two juniors, Jeremy Steinman and Clay Thompson, are beginning their first years on the team. Andy Novak is our only sophomore, and five freshman round out our team of thirteen: Kenny Novak, Manfred Barrios, Andrew Rust, Zach Miller, and Jackson Diedrich.
We've got a big week ahead of us, with Breck, Blake, and Spring Lake Park. I'll be writing about every match, so stay tuned!
Until then,
Michael
For the last five years, Hopkins tennis had been synonymous with Ali Barnett (after her recent marriage, Ali King). Ali was our head coach, and we loved having her, but due to a new addition to her family, she will not be coaching us this year. Her son Levi was born this fall, and Mr. Ken Novak will be taking over as coach for this season.
Despite his impressive basketball teams and recent state championships, Coach Novak has a few strong connections to tennis. First of all, his two sons, Andy, a sophomore, and Kenny, a freshman, have been on the team for three years. He also coached the Hopkins girls to a state championship in 1994. Among the members of that team was a certain seventh-grader: Ali Barnett.
Ryan is coming off an undefeated season, in which he won every match at #2 singles, and then partnered with Mac Gyswyt to win the doubles state championship. Mac now plays college tennis at Gustavus Adolphus University.
Ryan and I are among the team's five seniors. In addition to us, there is Brandon Rabinowitz, Andy Harris, and Duncan McConnell. Our two juniors, Jeremy Steinman and Clay Thompson, are beginning their first years on the team. Andy Novak is our only sophomore, and five freshman round out our team of thirteen: Kenny Novak, Manfred Barrios, Andrew Rust, Zach Miller, and Jackson Diedrich.
We've got a big week ahead of us, with Breck, Blake, and Spring Lake Park. I'll be writing about every match, so stay tuned!
Until then,
Michael
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