McALLEN — The McAllen Memorial tennis program will be well represented at this week’s UIL Tennis State Tournament in San Antonio as a trio of Mustangs are galloping their way to compete for a state title.
Memorial’s Gus Salazar, a junior boys singles player, and boys doubles tandem Arshaan Auf and Diego Salvo are among eight competitors in their respective events vying for a state championship.
“It’s going to be very fun. It really shows our level, dedication and love for the sport,” Salazar said.
The UIL Class 5A State Tennis Tournament is scheduled to begin with the quarterfinals at 8 a.m. Thursday at Northside ISD Tennis Center in San Antonio. Friday will feature the boys singles and boys doubles finals at 8:30 a.m.
McAllen Memorial’s tennis program has built a tradition as one of the strongest in South Texas under head coach Rhodora Elizondo. Her trio of Mustangs has already helped bring back district and area titles to Memorial this season.
“This is our 12th straight year winning the boys district championship and the third straight year for the area championship, so I’m very proud of these kids. They work hard and they’re good kids in their academics,” Elizondo said.
The last time this many Mustangs qualified for the state tournament was four years ago. This year’s group was determined to keep the tradition alive.
“We have a pretty good program. A lot of us work hard to be the best we can. I think our whole team just tries our best,” Auf said.
Salazar (35-1) is set to square off against Ethan Ruppanner of Amarillo Tascosa in the quarterfinals. Two wins are required to advance to Friday’s final.
Salazar earned his way to state by winning the Region IV-5A boys singles championship in April with a 4-0 run through the tournament. He capped it off with a 7-5, 6-4 win over Gregory-Portland’s David Avalos in the final.
Meanwhile, the Memorial boys doubles duo of Auf and Salvo (35-2) punched their ticket to state with a second place at regionals by beating Corbin Adcox and Aidan Johannsen of Dripping Springs in three sets 6-1, 1-6, 6-2 last month.
Standing opposite Auf and Salvo will be College Station A&M Consolidated boys double team of John Davis Watson and Henning Shcade.
“I’m excited. We’ve been practicing every day getting prepared,” Auf said. “I’m looking forward to the trip and a fun experience.”