Tennis

La Salle Clinches Third Consecutive Del Rey League Championship; Lancers Have Gone 9-0 in League Matches

Mar 31 2026 03:01:05

La Salle Tennis Report by Coach Javier Djeu:

The La Salle boys’ tennis team has officially cemented its place at the top of the Del Rey League once again. With a perfect 9–0 record, the Lancers secured their third consecutive league championship, overcoming early-season uncertainty to deliver one of the program’s most impressive runs to date.

“It means a lot,” said Coach Javier. “We started off so bumpy—to the point where I thought we weren’t even going to be able to compete. To turn that into an undefeated season so far… it made me feel justified in the decisions I made early on, especially the tougher ones.”

The defining moment of the season came in a tightly contested 10–8 victory over Bishop Montgomery High School, a match that ultimately secured La Salle’s position as the top team in the league.

Known for his consistency in lineup decisions, Coach Javier made a rare strategic adjustment in that match.

“We took a risk,” he said. “Everyone knows I don’t like to deviate from the plan, but we knew we had to ‘run the numbers’ to give ourselves the best chance to win. We stacked our doubles and made a plan to win all nine doubles sets and just one singles set.”

The calculated gamble paid off, as La Salle executed the strategy to perfection and came away with the narrow victory.

Just days later, the Lancers returned home for an emotional Senior Day matchup against Bishop Amat High School. With the league title on the line and their seniors taking the court for the final time at home, La Salle delivered once again—clinching the championship in front of family, friends, and teammates.

“All five of my seniors have been with me since their freshman year,” Coach Javier said. “It’s going to be bittersweet when the season ends. They’ve been through a lot with me, and I’ll forever be grateful for everything they’ve done for this team.”

Beyond the results, this season has been defined by the team’s chemistry and connection. “It’s been good,” Coach Javier said. “This team, although new in some ways, has been flowing well together all season. That was definitely the difference maker in the match against Bishop Montgomery, and it’s going to be the key to our success going into playoffs.”

This year’s title run is a testament not just to talent, but to resilience and belief. After roster turnover and early adversity, the Lancers stayed committed to their identity—prioritizing team chemistry, accountability, and trust in one another.

Now, with one final regular season match remaining after spring break, La Salle turns its attention toward the postseason with a clear mindset.

“Belief,” Coach Javier said. “I think that’s what held us back last year and what’s been pushing us this year. We need to believe in ourselves first… then no one can stop us.”

With momentum, unity, and confidence on their side, the Lancers are once again poised to make a deep postseason run—and this time, they fully believe they can finish the job.

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