The Pahrump Valley High School boys’ tennis team competed at the Class 3A State Tournament on Thursday, October 24, 2024, against South Tahoe. Despite their best efforts, the Trojans fell short with a 2-11 loss, wrapping up a historic season that saw the team qualify for State for the first time in school history.
In the team competition, Sonny Skinner, Legend Reigns, and Bryce Dykstra gave their all but were unable to secure any victories. On the doubles side, the pairings of Jace Eichner and Milan Vasquez, along with James Dela Rosa and Chris Jacks, managed to win one match each, although both teams also took a loss. Meanwhile, Juan Rodriguez and Mariano Ayala fought hard but lost both of their matches.
The next day, October 25, Lucas Johnson and Jace Eichner represented PVHS as individuals in the doubles competition. They gave an impressive effort, narrowly missing a victory with set scores of 2-6 and 4-6. Their determination on the court exemplified the spirit and grit of the Trojans.
Reflecting on the season, Head Coach Michael Dela Rosa expressed his pride in the team’s efforts, saying, “Our goals I gave in the beginning of the season were almost accomplished by the boys, and the girls were just shy of their goals. They all worked hard through practices and matches when it was very hot. We couldn’t be more proud of our players being awesome athletes, competitors, students, and with great attitude and sportsmanship that was noticed by other coaches and players who we competed against.”
In recognition of their hard work and leadership, the boys’ and girls’ tennis teams celebrated their senior athletes at halftime of the PVHS boys’ soccer game on October 22. The honored seniors included James Dela Rosa, Chris Jacks, Legend Reigns, Milan Vasquez, Alexis Staples, Chloe Sitter-Jones, Abigail Alberto-Amador, and Jemina Chavez, as well as manager Vanessa Sherad.
Looking ahead, Coach Dela Rosa shared that the team will continue building on this season’s momentum with off-season tennis practices and lessons. “We are having off-season tennis practices and lessons to maintain our momentum and success,” Dela Rosa added. “Anyone interested can email me at medelarosa@nyeschools.org or text me at +1 (775) 910-9017.”
Although the final results at State were not what the Trojans hoped for, the experience and growth achieved throughout the season have laid a solid foundation for future success. Coach Dela Rosa’s pride in their accomplishments and the respect they earned from opponents are lasting testaments to their perseverance and sportsmanship, leaving a bright future for PVHS tennis.
*A special thank you to PVHS Tennis and PVHS Yearbook for the State photos
