UPDATE: In a dramatic finish to the season, Peak to Peak’s standout tennis duo, Vivaan Bhardwaj and Shreyas Sundaresan, fell short in their respective finals at the Class 4A State Championships held on July 15, 2023, at Pueblo City Park. The Pumas’ impressive run came to an end as both players were defeated, leaving fans and teammates in shock.
Bhardwaj, a senior, faced a formidable opponent in Nithesh Karuppasamy from D’Evelyn, losing in a decisive match that saw him drop 12 straight games. Despite entering the tournament with confidence, Bhardwaj struggled against the speed and unique style of Karuppasamy. “Those really taught me how to stay mentally stoic,” Bhardwaj reflected on his offseason experiences, highlighting his physical strengths like his forehand and speed.
Meanwhile, Sundaresan fought valiantly against Colorado Academy’s Oliver Neely, but ultimately succumbed in a nail-biting match that ended with scores of 7-5, 7-5. Earlier in the week, Sundaresan had lost to Neely in a close semifinal, which he said motivated him to improve for the individual championship. “I had to shift my strategy, but I guess he plays his game just a bit better than I do,” Sundaresan remarked, emphasizing the tough lessons learned.
The Pumas showcased remarkable talent throughout the tournament, with only one line failing to qualify. Freshman Cody Palmer made an impressive run, finishing fourth in the singles competition, a significant achievement for a newcomer. Head coach Matt Palmer emphasized the growth and potential of his team, stating, “This has been a great learning experience for them. To do so well against tough teams will just make us better going into next year.”
In other notable outcomes, Peak to Peak’s team faced a tough loss in the semifinals against Colorado Academy, but the strong performances from players like Palmer and Sundaresan demonstrate the program’s bright future.
As the tennis season wraps up, all eyes are now on next year, with returning players set to build on their experiences from this championship run. The resilience and determination displayed by the Pumas have captured the attention of the local sports community, leaving fans eager for what lies ahead.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Peak to Peak tennis team prepares for another competitive season.
