10 reasons to watch the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger tennis tournament

Challenger tournaments like the Paine Schwartz Partners event at Atkins Tennis Center are training grounds for future ATP stars. Spectators can learn valuable lessons on footwork, shot selection, and composure under pressure.

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URBANA – Watching Challenger matches is like getting a free clinic on the foundational, battle-tested skills that form the bedrock of professional tennis — skills that can dramatically improve any recreational player’s game.

Sure, watching Grand Slam tennis is inspiring, but Challenger-level matches are hidden gems for picking up tips to strengthen your tennis toolbox. Players ranked inside the top 500 are incredibly skilled, fit, and dedicated to their craft. They’re grinding to make a living from the sport while doing everything they can to reach the ATP elite.

Each Challenger match is an inexpensive master class in the gritty, practical side of tennis — and class is in session this week at the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger at Atkins Tennis Center.

Ignore the 120 mph serves, the squeak of shoes as players slide across the court, and the occasional errant shot rocketing toward your head. Here are 10 reasons a high school or competitive adult player should catch at least a couple of matches:

1. See Rising Stars Before They’re Famous

Challenger events are the proving ground for future ATP Tour champions. Ben Shelton, Kevin Anderson, Sam Querrey, Marcos Baghdatis, and Kei Nishikori all played Challenger matches at Atkins Tennis Center before breaking onto the big stage.

2. Watch Diverse Playing Styles

The Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger draws veterans, journeymen, and young prospects every year. This mix exposes fans to a wide range of tactics, strategies, and styles. You’ll see a full toolbox of shots used with purpose: heavy topspin to push opponents back, biting slice to change rhythm, well-disguised drop shots, and aggressive approaches. It’s a reminder that winning isn’t just about hitting the ball hard — it’s about disrupting your opponent’s timing and comfort zone.

3. Get a Closer Fan Experience

Small venues like Atkins mean courtside seats where you can hear player-coach conversations and maybe even meet the athletes afterward — something that rarely happens at Grand Slams unless you have serious connections.

4. Study Footwork

While Challenger players may not have the explosive speed of the top 10, their movement is still world-class. Watch how they use small adjustment steps to position for every shot, recover after every rally, and almost never get caught flat-footed — a common flaw among club players.

5. Enjoy Global Flavor

Challenger tournaments span five continents, showcasing international talent and diverse playing philosophies. This year’s field includes players from Japan, Germany, Great Britain, Turkey, and Spain.

6. Learn How to Play Big Points

At 30-30, break point, or in a tiebreak, Challenger players don’t go for miracle winners. They simplify their game, get that first serve in, and aim for high-percentage targets. They trust their fundamentals when it matters most — a lesson any player can apply.

7. Improve Your Doubles Game

Watch how doubles partners function as one. You’ll see nonstop communication through hand signals, words, and intuitive movement. Notice how they support each other and cover the court so efficiently. Doubles is all about strategy and anticipation — formations like the I-formation and Australian are used constantly to outthink opponents. It’s a live master class in teamwork and tactics.

8. Study the Serve

Power matters, but variety wins points. You’ll see players use slice and kick serves to open the court or jam the returner with body serves. This is even more important in doubles, where the goal is to set up a partner for an easy putaway volley or overhead. Watching how pros use serve placement and spin to build points is a lesson that will pay off for any player looking to level up.

9. Observe Net Play

This might be the best reason to watch pro doubles live. You’ll see perfectly angled drop volleys, lightning-quick reflex exchanges, and body volleys under pressure. Pay attention to how players move with the ball and close down space — it’s a clinic in anticipation and aggression. Nothing matches the thrill of a perfectly timed poach.

10. Affordable and Accessible

Admission to the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger is just $10 a day — a bargain for a front-row seat to professional tennis and a master class that could help you win more points (and maybe more matches).

Here’s the schedule for Wednesday at the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger, held at Atkins Tennis Center.

ORDER OF PLAY - WEDNESDAY, 12 NOVEMBER 2025

Starting at 10:00 a.m. on the Schwartz Court:

[5] Mats Rosenkranz (GER) vs [Alt] Adhithya Ganesan (USA)
[3] Mitchell Krueger (USA) vs Darwin Blanch (USA)

Not Before 15:00
[WC] Adam Jilly (HUN) vs Alex Martinez (ESP)

Aidan McHugh (GBR) or [Q] Jeremy Zhang (AUS) vs [4] Murphy Cassone (USA)

Not Before 18:00
After Rest - Kenta Miyoshi (JPN)/Oliver Okonkwo (GBR)
        vs [WC] Sasha Colleu (FRA)/Adam Jilly (HUN)

Followed By
After Rest - [WC] Mathis Debru (FRA)/Jeremy Zhang (AUS)
        vs [3] Alfredo Perez (USA)/Jamie Vance (USA)

Starting at 10:00 a.m. on the Goldenberg Court:

Lui Maxted (GBR)/Joe Tyler (GBR)
        vs Ryan Seggerman (USA)/Keegan Smith (USA)

Anthony Genov (BUL)/Enzo Wallart (USA)
        vs [2] Pranav Kumar (USA)/Noah Schachter (USA)

Cedrik-Marcel Stebe (GER) vs Jay Friend (JPN)

[4] Tom Hands (GBR)/Mats Rosenkranz (GER)
        vs Arda Azkara (TUR)/James Hopper (GBR)

[1] Scott Duncan (GBR)/James Mackinlay (GBR)
        vs Isaac Nortey (GHA)/Leonardo Vega (USA)

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TAGS: Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger, Urbana tennis, Challenger Tour Illinois, Atkins Tennis Center, professional tennis education

Friend, Ganesan advance as top seeds prepare to hold court at Champaign tennis challenger

The Champaign Challenger opened with rising stars making strong statements. Japan’s Jay Friend overcame Alfredo Perez in a back-and-forth three-set battle, while American Adhithya Ganesan defeated Great Britain’s Oliver Okonkwo in straight sets.

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CHAMPAIGN - The Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger opened its main draw Monday with a slate of competitive singles matches that set the tone for an event blending rising international talents with seasoned tour veterans.

In one of the day’s featured matches, 21-year-old Jay Friend of Japan battled past American Alfredo Perez in three sets, 6-4, 5-7, 6-3. Friend, who showcased a powerful and consistent first serve throughout the match, took control early by winning 86% of his first-serve points in the opening set. After a dip in accuracy during the second, the young right-hander regained command in the final frame, converting 83% of his first serves and maintaining steady composure from the baseline to secure the win. His next test comes against the winner of Tuesday’s match between top seed Nicolas Mejia of Colombia and Germany’s Cedrik-Marcel Stebe.

American Adhithya Ganesan also advanced with a confident straight-sets victory over Great Britain’s Oliver Okonkwo, 6-3, 7-5. Ganesan’s sharp return game and reliable service rhythm proved decisive, as he won 65% of his overall service points and captured 31 points on return. Okonkwo, a former University of Illinois standout, managed a solid 67% success rate on first serves but faltered on his second serve, winning just 9 of 25 points. His tournament, however, continues in doubles, where he’ll reunite with fellow Illini alumnus Kenta Miyoshi.

As the tournament continues on the indoor hard courts of the Atkins Tennis Center, Tuesday’s lineup brings the top two seeds into play. No. 1 Nicolas Mejia faces Stebe following the morning matches on the Schwartz Court, while No. 2 Johannus Monday of Great Britain meets American Micah Braswell at 10 a.m. on the Goldberg Court.

Monday's results and Tuesday tournament schedule are available below.

Results - Monday, 10 November 2025

Men's Singles - Round of 32

Jay Friend (JPN) def Alfredo Perez (USA) 6-4, 5-7, 6-3
[WC] Adam Jilly (HUN) def Keegan Smith (USA) 6-4, 6-2
[Alt] Adhithya Ganesan (USA) def [WC] Oliver Okonkwo (GBR) 6-3, 7-5
Alex Martinez (ESP) def [7] Saba Purtseladze (GEO) 7-5, 3-6, 7-6(7)
[4] Murphy Cassone (USA) def [JR] Hoyoung Roh (KOR) 6-0, 6-2

Men's Qualifying Singles - Qualifying Round 2 [7] Ryan Fishback (USA) def [3] Jacob Brumm (USA) 6-2, 3-0 Retired
[4] Shunsuke Mitsui (JPN) def [10] Ryan Seggerman (USA) 6-7(4), 6-3, 6-4
[WC] Jeremy Zhang (AUS) def [2] Quinn Vandecasteele (USA) 7-5, 6-4
[1] Lui Maxted (GBR) def [WC] Marcel Latak (USA) 7-5, 6-2
[Alt] Taym Al Azmeh (GER) def [9] Maik Steiner (GER) 7-5, 6-4
[6] Pablo Martinez Gomez (ESP) def Noah Zamora (USA) 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(7)

Order of play for November 11, 2025

Starting at 10:00 a.m. on the Schwartz Court:

[Q] Shunsuke Mitsui (JPN) vs [8] Tyler Zink (USA)
Stefan Kozlov (USA) vs Leo Borg (SWE)
[1] Nicolas Mejia (COL) vs Cedrik-Marcel Stebe (GER)

Not Before 4:00 p.m.
Kenta Miyoshi (JPN) vs [LL] Quinn Vandecasteele (USA)

Not Before 6:00 p.m.
Aidan McHugh (GBR) vs [Q] Jeremy Zhang (AUS)
[WC] Sasha Colleu (FRA) vs [Q] Taym Al Azmeh (GER)

Starting at 10:00 a.m. on the Goldenberg Court:

Micah Braswell (USA) vs [2] Johannus Monday (GBR)
[5] Mats Rosenkranz (GER) vs [Q] Pablo Martinez Gomez (ESP)
[Q] Lui Maxted (GBR) vs Arda Azkara (TUR)
[6] Andres Martin (USA) vs [Q] Ryan Fishback (USA)

Not Before 5:00 p.m.
Stefan Kozlov (USA) / Brandon Perez (VEN)
        vs Patrick Harper (AUS) / Shunsuke Mitsui (JPN)

Erik Arutiunian / Saba Purtseladze (GEO)
        vs Zachary Fuchs (USA) / Wally Thayne (USA)

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TAGS: Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger results, Champaign tennis tournament 2025, Jay Friend ATP Challenger win, Adhithya Ganesan Champaign match recap, University of Illinois tennis news

Pro tennis action continues at Atkins Tennis Center today

Qualifying rounds at Champaign-Urbana pro tennis tournament continues today at Atkins Tennis Center. Players from around the globe look to make it into the main draw.

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CHAMPAIGN - The qualifying round at the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger continues today at the Atkins Tennis Center. The indoor hard-court tournament runs this week in Champaign-Urbana with a mix of emerging talents and seasoned tour veterans competing for valuable ATP ranking points.

Today's opening draw for the the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger starts at 10 a.m.

General admission is $10 per person.

Hosted at the University of Illinois’ premier tennis facility, the Champaign Challenger continues to serve as a key late-season stop on the U.S. circuit, offering players a final chance to improve rankings before year’s end and giving local fans an up-close look at future stars of the sport. Follow the tournament online for the Paine Schwartz daily draw.

Monday, November 10 Schedule

Starting at 10 a.m. on the Schwartz Court:

[3] Jacob Brumm (USA) vs [7] Ryan Fishback (USA)
[4] Shunsuke Mitsui (JPN) vs Ozan Baris (USA) or [10] Ryan Seggerman (USA)
[2] Quinn Vandecasteele (USA) or [Alt] Alex Kobelt (USA)
        vs [WC] Jeremy Zhang (AUS) or [11] Enzo Wallart (USA)

Not Before 3:00 p.m.
Alfredo Perez (USA) vs Jay Friend (JPN)

Not Before 6:00 p.m.
Keegan Smith (USA) vs [WC] Adam Jilly (HUN)
[WC] Oliver Okonkwo (GBR) vs [Alt] Adhithya Ganesan (USA)

Starting at 10 a.m. on the Goldenberg Court:

[1] Lui Maxted (GBR) vs [WC] Marcel Latak (USA) [5] Peter Bertran (DOM) or [Alt] Taym Al Azmeh (GER) vs [Alt] Tom Hands (GBR) or [9] Maik Steiner (GER) [6] Pablo Martinez Gomez (ESP) or [WC] Mathis Debru (FRA)
vs Noah Zamora (USA) or [12] Brandon Perez (VEN)

Not Before 3:00 p.m.
Alex Martinez (ESP) vs [7] Saba Purtseladze (GEO)

Not Before 5:00 p.m.
[JR] Hoyoung Roh (KOR) vs [4] Murphy Cassone (USA)

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Tags: Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger Champaign 2025, ATP Challenger Tour Illinois tennis tournament, Atkins Tennis Center Champaign tennis matches, professional men’s indoor hard court tennis, University of Illinois ATP Challenger event, emerging ATP tennis players in Champaign

Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger serves up action starting today in Champaign

Champaign-Urbana's annual professional hard-court tennis tournament starts today at Atkins Tennis Center.

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CHAMPAIGN - The annual Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger is underway at the Atkins Tennis Center in Champaign, bringing professional men’s tennis back to central Illinois as part of the ATP Challenger Tour. The indoor hard-court tournament runs November 9–16 and features a mix of emerging talents and seasoned tour veterans competing for valuable ATP ranking points.

Today's opening draw for the the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger starts at 10 a.m. Winners from these matches will advance to the main draw, which begins early this week and is expected to feature several ATP Top 200 players.

Among the challengers are University of Illinois players Jeremy Zhang and Mathis Debru, who take the court in today's qualifying singles round at Atkins Tennis Center. Both Fighting Illini players will start their run on the Schwartz Court.

General admission is $10 per person.

Hosted at the University of Illinois’ premier tennis facility, the Champaign Challenger continues to serve as a key late-season stop on the U.S. circuit, offering players a final chance to improve rankings before year’s end and giving local fans an up-close look at future stars of the sport. Follow the tournament online for the Paine Schwartz daily draw.

Sunday, November 9 Schedule

Starting at 10 a.m. on the Schwartz Court:
[3] Jacob BRUMM (USA) VS [Alt] Drew VAN ORDERLAIN (USA)

Starting at 10 a.m. on the Goldenberg Court:
Pranav KUMAR (USA) vs [7] Ryan FISHBACK (USA)

Followed by:
[WC] Marcel LATAK (USA) vs [8] Noah SCHACHTER (USA)
[1] Lui MAXTED (GBR) vs Preston BROWN (USA)
[WC] Jeremy ZHANG (AUS) vs [11] Enzo WALLART (USA)
[4] Shunsuke MITSUI (JPN) vs [WC] Benedict GRAFT (USA)
Ozan BARIS (USA) vs [10] Ryan SEGGERMAN (USA)
[Alt] Tom HANDS (GBR) vs [9] Maik STEINER (GER)
[5] Peter BERTRAN (DOM) vs [Alt] Taym AL AZMEH (GER)
[2] Quinn VANDECASTEELE vs [Alt] Alex KOBELT (USA)
[6] Pablo MARTINEZ GOMEZ (ESP) VS [WC] Mathis DEBRU (FRA)
Noah ZAMORA (USA) Vs [12] Brandon PEREZ (VEN)

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Tags: Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger Champaign 2025, ATP Challenger Tour Illinois tennis tournament, Atkins Tennis Center Champaign tennis matches, professional men’s indoor hard court tennis, University of Illinois ATP Challenger event, emerging ATP tennis players in Champaign

Winter tennis; Dodds Tennis Center Senior Drop-In Workout is back

The Senior Drop-In Tennis Workout returns to Dodds Tennis Center starting Nov. 4, 2025. Every Tuesday from 9-11 a.m., participants 16 and older can enjoy doubles and singles matches while staying active and meeting new players. .

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by Clark Brooks

Sentinel Sports

CHAMPAIGN - Playing tennis isn’t just fun — it’s good for your brain. Studies show that regular tennis play can help maintain cognitive function and may delay the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. For seniors looking to stay active and sharp, the Senior Drop-In Workout is back at Dodds Tennis Center. Starting Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, participants can join two hours of weekly match play. Sessions run every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. through Dec. 30, 2025.

The self-organized workout focuses mainly on doubles, with singles matches included as needed. Participants can enjoy a great workout while meeting new players. The program is open to anyone 16 and older. The fee is $12 per person, payable in advance or at the front desk on Tuesday mornings.

Workouts take place at Dodds Tennis Center, 2802 Farber Drive, Champaign. For more information, contact Yuri Sohn at yuri.sohn@champaignparks.org. Sign up online with the Champaign Park District.

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senior tennis drop-in Champaign IL, doubles and singles tennis match play Champaign, senior fitness tennis programs Illinois, Dodds Tennis Center weekly tennis sessions

Spartans’ depth shines in 7-2 win over Decatur St. Teresa, Kelso & team growing

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Senior Samy Kelso leads St. Joseph-Ogden with a 5-3 record, guiding a balanced Spartans tennis team built on depth and commitment.

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URBANA - St. Joseph-Ogden senior Samy Kelso has become the anchor of the Spartans’ girls’ tennis team, showcasing a season defined by growth, resilience and mental toughness.

With a 5-3 record, Kelso has delivered some of the team’s most notable performances, including a Sept. 10 victory over Schlarman standout Reagan Troglia, 6-2, 6-1. Eight days later, she squared off with Pontiac’s state-qualifier Olivia Masching, battling hard in a 6-2, 6-1 loss that highlighted the high level of competition she continues to face. For Kelso, both matches were steppingstones in what has become one of her strongest campaigns yet.

Kelso added another notch to her winning record this week against Decatur St. Teresa, defeating Vinathi Marri in straight sets, 7-5, 7-6 (4). The victory wasn’t easy, as Marri forced Kelso into a tiebreaker in the second set, but the senior dug deep and held her composure to seal the win.

St. Joseph-Ogden head coach Kevin Martlage praised her ability to embrace the team’s mantra of “play it one point at a time” after Tuesday's marathon match at Atkins Tennis Center.

He said Kelso’s mental strength has allowed her to rally in tough moments, turning what might have been losses in past seasons into wins. “She has also honestly become an absolutely great tennis player that loves the sport and is driven by continuing to get better and better each day,” Martlage said.

While Kelso has drawn much of the spotlight, the Spartans have seen depth across their lineup. Lily Rice continues to solidify the No. 2 singles slot, topping Decatur’s Brooke Nelson 6-3, 6-4, with steady serves and quick returns. At No. 5, Avarie Dietiker delivered a steady performance, winning 6-1, 7-5, while Nora Buckley powered through a two-set win at No. 6, showing the importance of closing out long rallies.

Though losses came at the No. 3 and No. 4 singles spots, teammates Audrie Helfrich and Maddie Wells continue to gain valuable experience against strong competition. Martlage noted that both players have made strides in their confidence on the court, even in defeat.

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The team’s progress in the latter half of the season comes from strong chemistry, individual commitment, and off-season skill development by returning players.

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SJO’s doubles squads made a clean sweep against Decatur, providing the perfect capstone to the 7-2 team win. The pairings of Ainsley Rhoten and Shelby Warns, Madison Farber and Kenley Ray, and Sophie Schmitz and Karleigh Spain all secured victories, with Schmitz and Spain closing out their match in dominating fashion, 6-1, 6-0.

Rhoten and Warns pulled away in the second set to finish 7-5, 6-2, while Farber and Ray battled through a tight tiebreaker to secure a 7-6 (4) victory in the second set. The effort reflected the Spartans’ team-first mentality, one that emphasizes spreading opportunities across the lineup and giving every player a chance to compete under pressure.

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Ava Midkiff lines up a shot while playing at #2 doubles in St. Joseph-Ogden's against Urbana back in early September. The Spartan dropped the road match 6-3 to the Tigers. The two teams face each other again on Monday at Blair Park for a season rematch.

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The team’s progress in the latter half of the season comes from strong chemistry, individual commitment, and off-season skill development by returning players. Martlage pointed out that from starters to alternates, veterans to neophytes, everyone works hard in practice to improve. Unlike a lot of high school teams, SJO doesn't rely on the strongest six players for every lineup.

"Every person on the team also works hard in practice and they continue to advance their ability to play a sport many of them never played before joining the team," said head coach Kevin Martlage. "I also feel that an 'X Factor' is our approach to playing 12 different players each and every match instead of doubling up the same 6 players between singles and doubles."

While it hasn’t always translated to a winning record, Martlage's goal is to build long-term success for his players to continue tennis year-round. "This has helped to prepare them for success while giving them important court time and confidence," he said.

Match Results

St. Joseph-Ogden 7, Decatur St. Teresa 2

Singles
No. 1 – Samantha Kelso (SJO) def. Vinathi Marri (St. Teresa), 7-5, 7-6 (4)
No. 2 – Lily Rice (SJO) def. Brooke Nelson (St. Teresa), 6-3, 6-4
No. 3 – Nora Jerabek (St. Teresa) def. Audrie Helfrich (SJO), 6-1, 6-2
No. 4 – Xaniyah Todd (St. Teresa) def. Maddie Wells (SJO), 6-3, 6-3
No. 5 – Avarie Dietiker (SJO) def. Addison Johnson (St. Teresa), 6-1, 7-5
No. 6 – Nora Buckley (SJO) def. Audrey Cunningham (St. Teresa), 6-4, 6-1

Doubles
No. 1 – Ainsley Rhoten/Shelby Warns (SJO) def. Nelson/Jerabek (St. Teresa), 7-5, 6-2
No. 2 – Madison Farber/Kenley Ray (SJO) def. Todd/Cunningham (St. Teresa), 6-3, 7-6 (4)
No. 3 – Sophie Schmitz/Karleigh Spain (SJO) def. Johnson/Perry (St. Teresa), 6-1, 6-0

TAGS: St. Joseph-Ogden girls tennis, Samy Kelso senior season, IHSA tennis Illinois, SJO vs Decatur St. Teresa tennis, Illini Prairie Conference sports

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Wang’s Champaign-Urbana mixed doubles squad earns trip to USTA Nationals

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After sweeping four sectional matches, Champaign-Urbana mixed doubles squad will represent Illinois at the USTA Nationals in Florida.

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by Clark Brooks

Sentinel Sports

INDIANAPOLIS - Kai Wang’s 18-and-over 7.0 mixed doubles tennis team is headed to Orlando after a commanding performance at the Midwest USTA sectional tournament in Indianapolis. The Champaign-Urbana squad swept through four matches over the weekend, dropping only five sets out of 26 played, to punch its ticket to the national championships set for Oct. 31–Nov. 2 at the USTA National Campus.

Mixed doubles competition pairs one male and one female player, combining their strengths on the court. The combined rating of both partners can’t exceed 7.0, and their individual numbers usually can’t differ by more than one point. Common pairings include a 3.5 player with another 3.5, or a 4.0 with a 3.0.

"Everyone is super excited about going to nationals," Wang said. A three-year veteran USTA team captain, he has led three other teams to sectional competition this year. In addition to his four team, a software developer by day, also plays on two other tennis teams. "It has always been challenging for a Champaign team to get out of sectionals. This year's sectional was very strange."

Wang said the top perrenial top team from Michigan did make it out of the state this year and the Wisconsin team was without some of their best female players due the timing of the sectional championship on the calendar.

Teams typically compete on three doubles courts, with the strongest pairing on Court 1 and the weakest on Court 3. Captains sometimes shift strategy, placing stronger teams on the No. 2 or No. 3 court. To win a team match, a squad must secure victories on at least two courts.

The victory is a glowing mark for the twin-city tennis community. Wang’s team is the first Champaign-Urbana squad to reach a national USTA event since 2014, when Dee Deschler guided a women’s 55-and-over team to Nationals. This year’s group qualified for sectionals after capturing the Illinois state crown on Sept. 13 with a hard-fought 2-1 decision.

Competing at the West Indy Racquet Club, the Champaign-Urbana squad opened with a 2-1 victory Friday against Wisconsin’s state champions, Team Putti. Saturday brought back-to-back sweeps as Wang’s side rolled past Indiana’s Team Inselberg and Michigan’s Team Armante, both by 3-0 margins. On Sunday, with a trip to Florida at stake, they sealed the deal in a 2-1 triumph over Ohio’s state titleholders, Team Ung.

Strong performances carried the weekend, including undefeated 3-0 runs by doubles pairs Chris Sarol and Kyo Nakanishi, and Minsun Kim and Angad Mehta. Their consistency proved to be a key factor in the team’s sectional success.

Wang said Nakanishi was a great addition to the team this year. The Japan native has won nine of her 12 matches since starting USTA competition this summer.

"Chris has really improved this year," he added. Sarol, a former Champaign Centennial standout, is one of the top 4.0-rated USTA players in the Mid-South Illinois region. Having played 36 matches this year, he secured victories in 31 of them. "They are really good together."

Wang highlighted Mehta and Kim as his top doubles pairing.

"Angad and M.K. are our strongest team," he said. "Angad is one of the strongest 3.5 players in our area. M.K. will probably get bumped up [to the next USTA level] next year."

Mehta, an assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Illinois, said he was proud of the team’s accomplishment and grateful for the opportunity to be part of this season’s journey.

"I can’t stop thinking about this - our little team from rural Illinois, based in the middle of cornfields, becomes a state champion, then goes on to beat every other state champion at sectionals, and is now on our way to nationals," he said. Thanking his teammates, he added, "What an incredible story this is. To assemble a group like this is quite incredible."

Mehta said he is looking forward to competing on the nation’s biggest stage against teams and players from across the country.

"It should be really cool."

The roster of the advancing Champaign-Urbana team includes: Kym Man, Angad Mehta, Su A Lee, Kai Wang, Kyo Nakanishi, Jooyen Kim, Paul Cheung, Chris Sarol, Lisa Ainsworth, Ben Lee, Minsun Kim, Sung Min Moon, Teri Scaggs, Noel Castro, Patrick Hammie, and Karolyn Smith.

Box Scores:

Team Wang vs Putti, Wisconsin
FINAL: 2-1
#1 - Prathap Palaniswamy/Megan Prahl def Jooyen Kim/Kai Wang - 6-3, 6-2
#2 - Kyo Nakanishi/Chris Sarol def Abtin Molavi/Molly Moritz - 6-4, 6-1
#3 - Paul Cheung/Minsun Kim def Amberlee Baugus/Hung Mahn Nguyen - 6-3, 6-3

Team Wang vs Inselberg, Indiana
FINAL: 3-0
#1 - Sarol/Nakanishi def Shelby Ackerman/Alex Aukerman - 6-3, 4-6, 1-0
#2 - Angad Mehta/Minsun Kim def Ashley DeMello/Jacob Lewis - 6-2, 6-1
#3 - Noel Castro/Kym Man def Mallory Inselberg/Damon Grothe - 6-1, 6-1

Team Wang vs Amante, Michigan
FINAL: 3-0
#1 - Mehta/Kim def Yvonne Boucher/Patrick van Tuinen - 6-1, 6-3
#2 - Castro/Man def Gary Arp/Pam Kloet - 6-0, 6-2
#3 - Teri Scaggs/Sung Min Moon def Joe Morris/Nicole Morris - 6-2, 6-1

Team Wang vs Ung, Ohio
FINAL: 2-1
#1 - Denise Hwang/Phong Nguyen def Castro/Man - 6-3, 3-6, 1-0
#2 - Sarol/Nakanishi def Eileen Connell/Craig Nine - 6-1, 6-2
#3 - Mehta/Kim def David Blond/Marybeth Esposito - 6-2, 6-3

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TAGS: USTA Nationals 2025 Orlando, Champaign-Urbana tennis history, Kai Wang mixed doubles team, Midwest USTA sectional results, Illinois tennis champions

St. Joseph-Ogden tennis rolls to shutout at GCMS

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The Spartans swept all singles and doubles matches. SJO's singles and doubles squads were flawless, taking key wins on the road.

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GIBSON CITY - St. Joseph-Ogden picked up a road win at Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley on Tuesday, improving the Spartans' record to 3-2. The girls tennis team earned a clean 5-0 victory over the Falcons, sweeping all singles and doubles matches.

In singles play, No. 1 Samantha Kelso defeated Natalie Aberle, 8-6, while No. 2 Lily Rice earned an 8-0 win over Charity Miguel.

The Spartans’ doubles teams were equally impressive. No. 1 pair Ainsley Rhoten and Madison Farber took an 8-6 win, No. 2 duo Shelby Warnes and Kenley Ray defeated their opponents 9-7, and No. 3 team Karleigh Spain and Sophia Scmitz dominated 8-1. SJO’s strong teamwork and consistent play allowed the team to claim the decisive road victory over GCMS.

Complete Match Results:

Singles:

• No. 1 - Samantha Kelso, SJO def. Natalie Aberle, GCMS, 8-6
• No. 2 - Lily Rice, SJO def. Charity Miguel, GCMS, 8-0

Doubles:

• No. 1 - Ainsley Rhoten / Madison Farber, SJO def.
  Charity Miguel / Natalie Aberle, GCMS, 8-6
• No. 2 - Shelby Warnes / Kenley Ray, SJO def.
  Caylynn Embry / McKenzy Foster, GCMS, 9-7
• No. 3 - Karleigh Spain / Sophia Scmitz, SJO def.
  Emma McDuffre / Bianca Stafford, GCMS, 8-1

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TAGGED:St. Joseph-Ogden girls tennis, GCMS tennis match results, Illinois high school tennis, SJO Spartans road win, girls tennis team scores

St. Joseph-Ogden tennis team faced tough test in Paris

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SJO tennis team faced early adversity with the loss to Paris but eyes improvement as season moves on.

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PARIS - Last week, St. Joseph-Ogden’s girls tennis team ran into a determined Paris squad, falling 7-0 on the road in a non-conference matchup that saw the Tigers rebound from an early-season loss with a dominant performance.

The Spartans entered the match looking to build on their season-opening win over Maroa-Forsyth nine days earlier. That 9-2 road victory had showcased the team’s depth and early-season form. But against Paris, now 2-1, SJO struggled to find rhythm across both singles and doubles play.

At No. 1 singles, Samantha Kelso battled through long rallies but ultimately fell to Paedyn Keys of Paris, 6-3, 6-2. Madison Farber kept the second court competitive, pushing Kaidence Eveland in both sets before dropping a 6-3, 6-3 decision.

Audrie Helfrich and Avarie Dietiker faced steady pressure at No. 3 and No. 4 singles, respectively, as Paris leaned into aggressive net play and consistent returns to take both matches in straight sets.

In doubles, SJO’s top pair of Sophia Schmitz and Shelby Warnes couldn’t hold off the Tigers’ Bella Moreschi and Myah Bartos, falling 6-1, 6-0. Ava Midkiff and Maddie Wells dropped their No. 2 match 6-0, 6-1, while Kenley Ray and Karleigh Spain closed out the day with a 6-3, 6-2 loss at No. 3.

Despite the setback, the Spartans move to 1-1 on the season and will look to regroup. Next up, SJO travels to Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley on Monday, Sept. 8, followed by a conference test at Pontiac on Sept. 18.

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Tagged:St. Joseph-Ogden girls tennis match recap, SJO vs Paris High School tennis results, Illinois high school tennis team updates, SJO Spartans tennis season 2025, IHSA girls tennis non-conference match

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Urbana captures first win of season, Kelso leads Spartans

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Urbana captures first win of season with 6-3 victory over St. Joseph-Ogden in girls tennis behind strong doubles play at Blair Park.

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Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Urbana's Elianna Lee hits the ball back over the net while playing the second set of her match against St. Joseph-Ogden's Samantha Kelso in the Tigers' home match against the Spartans.

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URBANA - Samantha Kelso broke through for her first singles win of the year, but Urbana High School claimed its first team victory of the season with a 6-3 triumph over St. Joseph-Ogden in a nonconference girls tennis match Tuesday at Blair Park.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

St. Joseph-Ogden's Maddie Wells serves during her doubles match on Tuesday.

Kelso, playing No. 1 singles, ended a two-match skid with a grueling 6-4, 7-5 decision over Urbana’s Elianna Lee in a contest that lasted two hours and 25 minutes. The win gave the Spartans an early lift, but Urbana rallied behind depth and strong doubles play.

St. Joseph-Ogden senior Lily Rice also delivered, earning her second singles win of the fall by defeating Urbana’s Catherine Bretl 6-2, 6-0. Rice, who split four matches last season, is off to a promising start with an eye on a breakout year. At No. 6 singles, Kenley Ray gave the Spartans their third point, topping Alisa Aksimentyeva 6-4, 6-2.

Urbana’s lineup countered with steady performances from its underclassmen. Freshman Anyssa Tangmunarunkit rallied from a set down to outlast SJO’s Madison Farber 3-6, 6-3, 10-5. Her older sister, Ananyah Tangmunarunkit, added a 6-4, 6-2 win over Ainsley Rhoten at No. 3 singles. Gwen McLean rounded out Urbana’s singles victories with a 6-3, 6-1 result over Avarie Dietiker.

With the score tied 3-3 after singles play, Urbana swept the doubles courts to clinch the dual. Lee teamed with Ananyah Tangmunarunkit for a 6-3, 6-2 win at No. 1, while Bretl and McLean secured No. 2 doubles with a 6-2, 6-1 victory. Anyssa Tangmunarunkit and Aksimentyeva closed it out with a 6-3, 6-3 win at No. 3.

The victory improved Urbana to 1-1, while St. Joseph-Ogden slipped to 2-2. Urbana will host St. Thomas More on Tuesday, Sept. 9, before embarking on a three-match road swing. The Spartans hit the road Monday, Sept. 8, for a matchup with Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley, followed by a Sept. 18 conference battle at Pontiac.

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Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Tigers' Catherine Bretl and Gwen McLean go over game strategy during a changeover in the second set. The duo won their doubles match, defeating Maddie Wells and Ava Midkiff 6-2, 6-1.

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Box Score

Urbana 6, St. Joseph-Ogden 3

Singles
No. 1 — Samantha Kelso (SJO) def. Elianna Lee (Urbana) 6-4, 7-5
No. 2 — Lily Rice (SJO) def. Catherine Bretl (Urbana) 6-2, 6-0
No. 3 — Ananyah Tangmunarunkit (Urbana) def. Ainsley Rhoten (SJO) 6-4, 6-2
No. 4 — Anyssa Tangmunarunkit (Urbana) def. Madison Farber (SJO) 3-6, 6-3, 10-5
No. 5 — Gwen McLean (Urbana) def. Avarie Dietiker (SJO) 6-3, 6-1
No. 6 — Kenley Ray (SJO) def. Alisa Aksimentyeva (Urbana) 6-4, 6-2

Doubles
No. 1 — Lee/Tangmunarunkit, A. (Urbana) def. Schmitz/Warnes (SJO) 6-3, 6-2
No. 2 — Bretl/McLean (Urbana) def. Wells/Midkiff (SJO) 6-2, 6-1
No. 3 — Tangmunarunkit, An./Aksimentyeva (Urbana) def. Hartman/Spain (SJO) 6-3, 6-3

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TAGGED: Urbana girls tennis vs St. Joseph-Ogden, Illinois high school tennis results, Central Illinois girls tennis scores, St. Joseph-Ogden Spartans tennis schedule, Urbana Tigers tennis 2025 season

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Kelso picks up win at Urbana, Spartans drop road match

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

URBANA - Pushed back to fence on a deep lob from Urbana's Elianna Lee, St. Joseph-Ogden's Sami Kelso returns the ball during their #1 Singles match. Kelso, a senior, picked up her first victory of the season after defeating Lee 6-4, 7-5 at Blair Park. The Spartans also enjoyed singles wins from Lily Rice and Kenley Ray, tying the match at 3-all going into the doubles matches. The Tigers held their ground winning all three doubles bouts to take the match, 6-3.

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More stories ~

Madigan wins back-to-back titles at Labor Day Tournament

St. Joseph-Ogden tennis rolls past St. Teresa in season opener

Labor Day tennis tournament crowns champions

Centennial falls to Bulldogs in nonconference match at home

Top seven cities in the Midwest to move if you love to play tennis

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TAGGED: St. Joseph-Ogden vs Urbana tennis results, St. Joseph-Ogden girls tennis, High School tennis team, IHSA girls tennis dual meets, Urbana Tigers tennis

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