The Hamilton Southeastern boys tennis team saw its season come to an end at the regional semi-finals on Tuesday, as the No. 3-ranked Royals lost a 3-2 dual to host and No. 5-ranked North Central.
The Panthers won the first point at No. 2 doubles, then Southeastern’s Abhi Chaddha tied the meet by winning at No. 3 singles 6-0, 6-2. The Royals’ No. 1 doubles team of Andrew Spirrison and Aiden De Witt then won its match, and HSE’s Nos. 1 and 2 singles players, Rohan Golla and Paul Schneider, fought back after dropping first sets to win the second set in their respective matches. But North Central won the third set in both matches to clinch the win.
“It was a heartbreaking loss for us as we really thought this was going to be our year to get over the hump,” said Southeastern coach Kirk Webber. “But props to North Central as they once again proved how tough they are to beat in the postseason, especially on their home courts and with their home crowd. Despite the disappointing loss, we had a great season, and should be proud of everything we have accomplished.”
The Royals finished their season 16-2. In addition, Spirrison and De Witt will advance to the individual doubles tournament, and play their first match Thursday at North Central.
Up at Kokomo, No. 1-ranked Carmel won its regional semi-final match by beating Logansport 5-0.
The Greyhounds will play West Lafayette at 4:30 p.m. this afternoon for the championship.