Crean Lutheran boys tennis team was making big strides
For the Spirit of God does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7
Crean Lutheran’s boys tennis team had some big victories before spring sports were cancelled.
“I could not be more blessed to have such a group of respectful young men,” said Coach Patrick Young. “Although no Empire league matches were played, our varsity team looked strong with non- league match wins for the first time in over five plus years against Newport Harbor and St. Margaret’s.
“We also avenged last year’s CIF playoff loss to Mater Dei by beating them 13-5 in our last match of the 2020 season.”
Young had a message to his players:
“I do understand a portion of what you are going through as my last season of high school tennis was abruptly cut short and missed out on CIF playoffs,” he said. “I believe that during this difficult time, your identity and value are not based on your tennis/athletic skills, the last match we played, or any future performances. I am very grateful we have a loving God that designates to us our value, identity, and gives us hope through his son Jesus Christ. Our value is not based on any type of personal achievements and I hope you understand that.”
Young also talked about the seniors:
Hugh Byoun: “Hugh is a third-year varsity player who improved tremendously by his hard work and dedication to the sport. He was one of the players that was always energetic, and the team could count on to give it his all every time on the court. Hugh’s never quit attitude, diving on the hard court surface if necessary, attacking any ball …. will be remembered fondly.”
Alex Chun: “Alex had an amazing varsity tennis career at Crean Lutheran. He has such a solid skill set that could adapt to playing singles or doubles which is such a great asset to have on any tennis team. Alex was selected unanimously by the varsity players this season to be co-captain. He always put the team goals ahead of his own and gracefully gave his time to communicate with his teammates and keep the team in a good mindset at practices and matches.”
Justin Hii: “Justin is a true coaches’ joy to have as an athlete as without fail, was very committed to working hard in every practice and attended all varsity team events without complaint. Justin has intelligent composure on the court, and you could never tell if he had a match in hand or was losing, which is a great attribute to have as a tennis player.”
Josh Lee: “Josh was the co-captain of the varsity tennis team his junior and senior year and was always one of the top players that the team could rely on to get match wins. As part of our No. 1 doubles team, he was one of the main reasons the team qualified for CIF playoffs for the first time in over five years. If you ever saw one of his matches, you could tell his power and court awareness were at an elite level. Josh’s work ethic, commitment, and leadership were such a blessing to have.”
Paul Zhang: “As a sophomore transfer, Paul was a three-year varsity tennis player at Crean Lutheran. His tennis development leading into his senior year was amazing as Paul worked very hard on his individual skill set to turn into a solid singles player for the team.”