When the final tally was counted at Forsythe Park, the tennis team’s jubilant reaction told the whole story. Accumulating 15 points, the team narrowly edged Brother Martin by a single point to capture the LHSAA Division I state championship. This victory marks Jesuit’s first state tennis championship since 2016 and adds a remarkable 24th tennis title to the school’s storied athletic legacy.

Coach Scott Schlesinger praised his team’s determination: “I can’t say enough about the team effort that the boys put in. Every player contributed points when we needed them most. This championship was truly earned by everyone.”

Jesuit entered the tournament after winning the regional team title earlier in April, carrying momentum and confidence into Monroe. Senior doubles captains Leo Congeni and Scott Harper, who previously claimed their second consecutive regional title, reached the state doubles finals. Despite an outstanding effort, Congeni and Harper fell just short in a thrilling three-set final, 6-7, 6-3, 6-3. Still, their finals appearance proved crucial in the team’s overall scoring.

In singles competition, junior standout Alton Swan provided a critical boost, advancing to the championship match. Swan finished as runner-up (6-3, 6-1), and his consistent play throughout the tournament secured vital team points. Fellow singles competitor Jake Bravo showcased resilience, battling through intense quarterfinal and semifinal matches, ultimately reaching the singles semifinals and significantly contributing to Jesuit’s winning total.

The depth of the team became evident early, highlighted by impressive performances from senior Andrew Cavallino and junior Cody Martinez, who reached the doubles semifinals in Line 2 Doubles. Senior Gabe Goodson and junior Vitali Stradomiski also fought valiantly, competing through the round of 32 in Line 3 Doubles.

Each round of play reinforced Jesuit’s strategy of maximizing every court, a principle Schlesinger emphasizes as their “six-court mentality.” The Blue Jays consistently put pressure on their opponents by advancing all five entries—two singles and three doubles teams—deep into the competition, making every match count.

Despite focusing on the team’s depth, Schlesinger did not hold back from celebrating specific players, noting that Harper and Congeni were “the best doubles team in the state right now.”

Historically, this triumph places the 2025 squad alongside Jesuit’s memorable teams from 1965, Jesuit’s first state championship tennis team, and 1983, a team which added its mark to the Hall of Champions after several years of rebuilding. This latest victory further solidifies the program’s tradition.

As the seniors passed the torch to their younger teammates, Schlesinger expressed optimism about the future. “This championship wasn’t just about talent,” he said. “It was about heart, dedication, and playing for each other. We’re excited to build on this momentum next year.”

As Blue Jay cheers echoed through Monroe, the team’s celebration captured perfectly the spirit of Jesuit athletics—men for others, bound together in competition and brotherhood.