CIF-SS GIRLS TENNIS FINALS
Division 1
University (20-1) vs. Peninsula (21-0)
Where, when: The Claremont Club, Friday, 11:30 a.m.
Outlook: For the second consecutive season, the CIF championship match will feature University and Peninsula. These two teams played back on Oct. 15 with the Panthers handing the Trojans their only loss of the season, 14-4. Peninsula enters the final on a 48-match winning streak that’s been fueled by a roster loaded with five-star recruits. The Panthers’ top two singles players – junior Ena Shibahara and sophomore Ryan Peus – are both ranked top-15 nationally in their classes. University will need stellar performances from its entire team if it hopes to pull off the upset. The Trojans have the talent to do so as Yuki Asami, Celine Gruaz and Alyssa Rudin are all experienced players who’ve played in pressure-filled matches before.
Division 3
Valencia (19-2) vs. Pasadena Poly (18-1)
Where, when: The Claremont Club, Friday, 10:30 a.m.
Outlook: The Tigers qualified for their first CIF final since 2008 on Wednesday thanks in large part to their three doubles teams who collectively went 8-1 in the semifinals against Cerritos High. While they struggled early on, Valencia’s top two singles players – Emily Duong and Kavita Kadiamada – returned to form later in the match, earning the crucial ninth and 10th points for the Tigers. If Valencia can put forth another total team effort as it did in the semis, look for the Tigers to be hoisting the CIF title on Friday afternoon.
