Superintendent Pam Beaudoin, Principal Julie Sgroi, and Athletic Director, Cameron Molinare are proud to share the success of the Manchester Essex Regional High School Boys Tennis team, which this year won the MIAA Division 4 State Championship, Cape Ann League (CAL) Baker Championship, and CAL Open Championship.
The team finished its season with an overall record of 19-4, and was led to victory under the mentorship of Head Coach Robert Bilsbury and Assistant Coach Barrett Alston.
“What an incredible group! This season was just a magical ride, and this team was the deepest I have ever coached,” said Bilsbury, who has coached at MERHS for 25 years. “There’s talent at every position.”
Through their commitment, dedication, perseverance and grit, the team not only clinched the league title but the CAL Open and Division 4 State Championship titles.
In celebration of its victory, the team was invited to the Massachusetts State House on Wednesday, July 17 for a recognition ceremony and was presented with official citations courtesy of Senator Bruce Tarr and Representative Ann Margaret Ferrante. The team and MERSD staff were honored to be able to attend and receive such a high level of recognition for their achievements.
Team members include:
Jack Bediz, Grade 11
Finn Birkeland, Grade 11
Alexander Breuker, Grade 12, Captain
Andrew Cahill, Grade 10
Jack Cummins, Grade 11, Captain, CAL Open Champion
Shay Englehart, Grade 11
Charlie Langendorf, Grade 11
Peter Langedorf, Grade 9
Jack Lawler, Grade 11
Marius Roser, Grade 10
Henry Swerdloff, Grade 11
Ernest Taylor, Grade 11
Benjamin Tobin, Grade 10
Brodie Tolo, Grade 12
Charlie Virden, Grade 12, Captain
Jan Vytopil, grade 12, Captain, CAL Open Champion
“We truly could not be more proud and excited for the Manchester Essex Boys Tennis team. Under the exceptional leadership of Coach Bilsbury, the four captains, and seniors, the team reached new heights this year,” said Athletic Director Cameron Molinare. “The championship match is one of the best I’ve ever seen - a testament to the strength of both programs. On behalf of the entire Athletic Department, congratulations to the team and Coach Bilsbury on their state championship win.”
“We are incredibly proud of our student-athletes and celebrate their huge achievement. This is Coach Bilsbury’s first state championship, and the first for MERHS since 1998,” said Principal Sgroi. “It was an exciting match and the team fought for every point. They demonstrated true sportsmanship on and off the court all year long.”
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The Manchester Essex Regional High School Boys Tennis team clinched the MIAA State Championship, Cape Ann League (CAL) Baker Championship, and CAL Open Championship. (Photo Courtesy MERSD)
From left, Nina Goodick, Coach Robbie Bilsbury, Finn Birkeland, Charlie Virden, Brodie Tolo, Jack Lawler, Athletic Director Cameron Molinare, Principal Julie Sgroi, and State Rep Ann Margaret Ferrante at the State House on July 17. (Photo Courtesy MERSD)
From left, Brodie Tolo, Charlie Virden, Jack Lawler, State Rep. Ann Margaret Ferrante, Finn Birkeland, and Coach Robbie Bilsbury at the State House. (Photo Courtesy MERSD)
MERSD Boys Tennis team members are presented with official citations courtesy of the State Senate and House of Representatives. (Photo Courtesy MERSD)
