DENNIS SILVA II | STAFF WRITER
The weather this month has not been favorable for the Valley’s tennis teams, but Mercedes’ Brandon Cuellar and Crystal Werbiski have managed to keep their rhythm.
The Tigers’ sophomores have adhered to a weight-lifting program by coach Herman De La Cerda while the courts have been soaked. Cardio has been an emphasis as well.
“It’s not the same as being on the court, but it’ll keep you in check,” De La Cerda said.
Cuellar and Werbiski have been the core of Mercedes’ program this semester, each placing second and third, respectively, at the Los Fresnos and Brownsville tournaments recently.
Each is in the running for the individual district title next month.
“Their work ethic is top notch. Their practice habits are great,” De La Cerda said. “They’ll practice with us and then go on their own after hours. Brandon will hit with his brothers, and Crystal hits with a brother-in-law. They were in the mix last year, but that one year experience is huge. Now they’re the top players and they’re only maturing.”
Cuellar and Werbiskie have helped steady the tide while junior Michael Gomez recovers from a back injury. Gomez, who went to junior nationals in Florida as a seventh and eighth grader, is expected to be ready for district play, likely playing doubles with Payton White.
“He’s still one of the better players, just not where he wanted to be,” De La Cerda said.
GONZALEZ EMERGES
Edcouch-Elsa senior golfer Ryann Gonzalez has come on strong of late for the Yellowjackets. Within past weeks, Gonzalez won the Donna ISD Invitational (175 two-day score) and placed second at the Mercedes Invitational (182).
“She’s played a whole lot better than the first semester,” E-E coach Bobby Hernandez said. “She’s a kiddo who has a lot on her plate — three college courses, FFA, student council, NHS. She’s coming around. She told me she wanted to focus more on golf to finish off her senior year.”
Gonzalez won more tournaments last year, but she also wasn’t taking college courses at South Texas College. She wants to be a teacher and has already been accepted to attend UT-RGV.
This semester, Gonzalez has concentrated more on the links, spending more time practicing. Even in the rain.
Gonzalez and Miranda Moreno, a junior, are the heart of the girls program. On the boys side, sophomore Canaan Vasquez has stepped up as a leader.
“That kid has a heart,” Hernandez said. “He came out of nowhere. He was seventh on a team of five last year, but worked hard in the summer. He would call me asking for advice, for coaching. He has earned his spot.”
Hernandez said the difference between Vasquez and his peers is Vasquez willingly works on his short game.
“Most kids think that’s boring,” Hernandez said. “But he’ll play anybody close to the pin or near the hole.”
COMING UP
The La Feria tournament is the only local tennis tournament going on this weekend. Local teams will also be competing at a tournament in Kerrville.
In golf, this weekend is the 32-6A Pre-District Invitational at Laguna Vista at South Padre Island.