Ross School’s Perez Trapero Wins Suffolk County Singles Title
Alejandro Perez Trapero captured the Suffolk County singles title on a hot afternoon at Smithtown East High School on Tuesday, defeating Ignacio ‘Nacho’ Pena Lopez 6-3, 6-2 in a battle between two Ross School teammates.
“I’ve known Nacho for a while now, he’s a really tough rival and knows how to make me miss my shots,” said Perez Trapero. “It was a really good match, and I’m proud of myself for being able to win. Since the beginning, it’s been the goal I’ve had, to do the best I can at Divisionals and now Counties, and I’m excited for the States.”
Perez Trapero held his nerve and overcame his friend and opponent as well as the hot on-court conditions to capture the county title. He was able to secure breaks early in each of the two sets and was consistent on serve to win the championship in straight sets.
“I tried to make every point as hard as possible for Nacho, and just play point-by-point,” he added. “I didn’t think about the heat or anything else, and just gave it everything I had.”
He now turns his attention to the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Individual Championships, set to begin on June 5 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
“I’m really excited. When I was in Spain before coming here, I was talking to Nacho and he was telling me about States,” he said. “I’m going to give 100 percent, and keep on working to do my best.”
Both Perez Trapero & Pena Lopez will represent Suffolk County at the State tournament, as will Sachem’s Leo Villacreses, who defeated William Floyd’s Vidal Macchia 6-4, 6-1 in the third-place match.
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