HHS boys tennis trio closes season

HUNTLEY – The Huntley boys tennis doubles tandem of Matt Grubbs and Ben Hein, fresh off a sectional championship, continued their strong season at the IHSA Class 2A Boys Tennis Tournament.

The Red Raiders turned back DeClan Lally and Ian Wolan of Palos Heights Stagg, 6-0, 6-2 in the first round at state. It was their 21st win of the season.

“Ben and Matt only lost five games at the sectional; they were dominant,” HHS coach Barry Wells said. “They have a great chemistry.”

Grubbs and Hein continued in the winners bracket May 27 against Alex Kotalski  James Theriault of Hinsdale Central, which won 6-0, 6-2, dropping the Red Raiders to the consolation round. The Red Raiders lost their third match at state to Alex Denizov and Mark Ter-SaKyanis of Glenbrook South, 8-1.

Singles player Aryaan Khalil gained a state spot through third singles from sectional at Auburn. At state he lost to Mattas Ciablis of St. Charles North, 6-1, 6-1  Khslil lost to John Mou, Neuqua Valley, 8-1, in the consolation round.

One HHS season highlight was finishing runner-up to Rockford Auburn in the sectional, 26-25 team points.

Wells summed up the Red Raiders’ efforts at state.

“Our state tournament ended a little earlier than we hoped but I’m so proud of these boys for their accomplishments and their hard work.”