The Lincoln-Way Central Knights boys’ tennis team commenced their 2025 season with two narrow victories against Joliet Catholic Academy and Oak Forest.
On March 24, the Knights narrowly defeated Joliet Catholic Academy 4-3. According to reports, Lincoln-Way Central excelled in the singles flights, with Matthew Katsikas securing first singles, Matthew Collins winning second singles, and Ayden Maholy clinching third singles. The decisive point was achieved by the fourth doubles team of Jack Wallace and Mikal Poli, who secured the final win to tip the scales in favor of the Knights.
Two days later, the Knights maintained their momentum with a 3-2 victory on the road against Oak Forest. Collins earned another win at second singles. The second doubles team of Jacob Craig and Devin Van Ginder played a crucial role by battling through a tense third-set super tiebreak to secure the match-clinching point. Additionally, the third doubles team of Chris Dehoog and Michal Drozd achieved a vital victory.
Coach Eric Balluff commended the team’s composure and resilience in both matchups, noting their ability to perform under pressure. With these early-season wins, Balluff says that “the Knights are showing promising depth and determination on the court as the season gets underway.”