• Coach David Clovesko-Wharton gathers the Lobos for some final instructions prior to their match with Duncan. Photo by Dave Lumia
  • The Lobos line up for introductions prior to Monday’s match with Duncan (from left): Louis Reyes, Alex Ruskowitz, Skylar Sanchez, Jaxon Yslava, Isela Cervantes, Meghan Aguilar. Photo by Dave Lumia
  • Junior Jaxon Yslava follows through on a serve against Duncan. Photo by Dave Lumia
  • Senior Meghan Aguilar makes a backhand return against Duncan. Photo by Dave Lumia
  • Sophomore Isela Cervantes returns serve in the Lobos’ match with Duncan. Photo by Dave Lumia
  • Junior Skylar Sanchez protects the net as Jaxon Yslava serves. Photo by Dave Lumia

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As the calendar turned to April, the Patagonia High School tennis teams each picked up their first victories of the season.

The Patagonia boys team recorded a 4-2 victory over St. Augustine on Tuesday, April 1. The Lobos won three of four singles matches and split a pair of doubles matches. Junior Jaxon Yslava defeated St. Augustine’s Edgar Reyes 6-4, 6-2 at No. 1 singles and teamed up with sophomore Luis Reyes for an 8-1 victory in doubles. Junior Syklar Sanchez and sophomore Alex Ruskowitz also earned singles victories for Patagonia, each battling back from losing the first set and prevailing in a third-set tie-breaker.

The Patagonia girls got their first victory on Thursday, April 3, by a 2-1 score over St. David. The Lobos scored both of their points in singles: sophomore Isela Cervantes over Addison Merrill by scores of 6-7, 6-3, 11-9 at No. 1 and senior Meghan Aguilar by scores of 6-3, 6-2 over Addison Frye at No. 2.

While victories have been scarce, Clovesko-Wharton has been pleased with the Lobos’
progress and commitment.

“All the Lobos tennis players exemplify sportsmanship and honor on and off the courts,” he said. “They are a unique group of individual personalities who understand the importance of team philosophy and strategy.  Their hard work at practice has elevated their groundstrokes so they can rally and play competitively.  They are always willing to listen, observe and learn every day.”

The Lobos have three matches remaining, all on the road.