Freeport adds to tennis success

Tasting a great deal of success last spring inspired members of Freeport’s boys’ tennis program to start playing on their own, either during the offseason or on weekends or holidays since practice began in March, coach Ousmane Diouf said.

The result of the extra court time could be at least a share of the Conference 4 title for a second straight year, if the Red Devils can sweep this week’s opponents and build on their 10-1 record. Last year they were conference co-champs with Malverne.

“The kids love the game of tennis and were excited about finishing tied for the conference championship last year and being honored by the school board,” Diouf said. “They’ve been playing a lot of tennis on their own time, going to Cow Harbor Park in small groups and having fun and getting better.”

Freeport and Baldwin are tied with identical records with three matches remaining. The teams split head-to-head, with the Red Devils taking the season opener at Baldwin and the Bruins avenging that loss April 28 at Cow Harbor Park.

“Baldwin has exceptional singles players and we had a bit of a tough time adjusting to the turf courts,” Diouf said. “If we can win our last three and they do the same, it will be the same finish as last season.”

For the fourth consecutive season, the Red Devils have been led by Jayden Easy at first singles. The fourth-year captain is a star on the court as well as in the classroom. He’s headed to Princeton University and is ranked No. 3 our of 430 students in Freeport’s Class of 2023. “Jayden is involved in so many school activities and is very serious about tennis and understands the game well,” Diouf said. “He’s playing well and has a strong backhand and improved forehand.”

At No. 2 singles, sophomore Isaiah Santana has a 9-2 record, including a few matches at the top spot when Easy was unable to attend. “Isaiah is a great player with great strokes and a strong serve,” Diouf said.

Senior Christian John, a lefty, made the jump from first doubles to third singles and uses his height, speed and athleticism to get the job done, the coach noted. “He’s very quick on the court and is one of our best servers,” Diouf said.

Freeport’s doubles teams feature a mix of veterans and newcomers. In the top spot are sophomores Johncarlo Rivera and Ricardo Romero. The latter is an avid pickleball player. “They’re happy to be paired up,” Diouf said.

Juniors Erik Cruz and Carlos Ventura form the No. 2 tandem and carried over their chemistry from being on the court together often a year ago. At third doubles, sophomore Daniel Cruz brings height (6-foot-2) and a big serve, while sophomore Jefferson Ortiz earned his way into the starting lineup after sharpening his skills since last spring. Seniors Dorian Trotman and Jesse Menjivan have frequented the win column at fourth doubles thanks in large part to their communication.