The Western Reserve Academy boys' varsity tennis team wrapped up their 2025 campaign on a high note, defeating Walsh Jesuit 4–1 in a match that not only closed the season but celebrated three standout seniors who helped define its success.
Despite the chaos of a weather-riddled spring that saw ten matches canceled, the Pioneers still managed to post an impressive 7–3 overall record—a testament to the team's depth, resilience, and leadership.
Before the match, seniors
Keven Gong,
Arsh Goyal, and
Chase Walker were honored in front of teammates, coaches, and fans. It was a fitting tribute to three players who have been cornerstones of the program and who helped elevate Pioneer tennis over the past four seasons.
Once the matches began, the underclassmen made quick work of the Warriors. At No. 1 singles, sophomore
Collin Si ('27) delivered a clinic, cruising to a 6–0, 6–2 win that set the tone early. Not far behind him was classmate Govi Chadalavada ('27), who controlled the tempo and the scoreboard with a smooth 6–1, 6–3 win at No. 2. At No. 3 singles, senior
Chase Walker ('25) punctuated his final high school match with a convincing 6–2, 6–2 win, a performance that was equal parts dominant and poetic.
The doubles courts provided a mix of nostalgia and next-generation promise. Gong and Goyal, choosing to team up for their final match, stepped onto the court at No. 1 doubles one last time. Though they came up short against a strong Walsh Jesuit pair (6–4, 6–1), their presence and partnership symbolized years of shared effort and excellence.
At No. 2 doubles, juniors Mody and Vaughn showed grit and maturity. After falling behind 0–3 in the first set, they steadied the ship and closed out the match with poise, winning 6–3, 6–2—a preview of what's to come in 2026.
As the sun set on Senior Day and the 2025 season, the Pioneers can reflect proudly on all they accomplished amid a stop-and-start schedule. The foundation has been laid for continued success, and with young talent already making waves, the future of WRA tennis looks as bright as ever.
To Keven, Arsh, and Chase—thank you for the memories. To everyone else—we'll see you in 2026.
