Wayland strengthens Hopkinton boys tennis team as Division 2 contender

Wayland High School’s boys tennis team secured a dominant victory over Hopkinton on Friday afternoon, with freshman Toby Kylberger leading the charge. In a No. 1 singles match against Hopkinton’s Joe Krattenmaker, Kylberger showcased his skills with a 6-1, 6-3 victory, setting the tone for a 5-0 win for the Warriors.

The team, which moved up to Division 2 after winning the state championship in Division 3 last year, is currently ranked No. 4 in the latest MIAA power rankings. Despite a record of 7-5, the Warriors have faced tough competition from Division 1 top-ten teams, showing their resilience and determination to succeed in the higher division.

Sophomore Jeffrey Zhang also contributed to the team’s success by securing a victory at No. 2 singles, defeating Hopkinton’s Rishit Shekhar 6-1, 6-1. Zhang, who played No. 1 singles during the team’s state championship run last year, emphasized the challenge of competing in Division 2 but expressed confidence in the team’s ability to excel.

Hopkinton, on the other hand, has had a strong season, with a record of 12-2 heading into the final week of the regular season. The team easily qualified for the playoffs and is ranked 11th in Division 2. Despite losing key players from last year’s Final Four team, the Hillers have shown resilience and determination in their matches.

Overall, the matchup between Wayland and Hopkinton showcased the talent and determination of both teams as they strive for success in their respective divisions. With players like Kylberger and Zhang leading the way, both teams are poised for a successful postseason as they continue to compete at a high level.