The St. Mary’s boys tennis team capped off an outstanding 2026 season with one of the most successful years in program history.
Check out Coach Andrew Schleinitz's wrap-up of the boys' season below:
The St. Mary’s boys tennis team capped off an outstanding 2026 season with one of the most successful years in program history. From the first day of practice to the final match of the state tournament, the team’s energy, support, friendship, and commitment to one another stood out. Every player was willing to step in, compete, and support his teammates, creating a true team culture from top to bottom. Throughout the season, the Crusaders challenged themselves against some of Oregon’s best competition, including strong performances at the OES Tournament, the Bigfoot Tournament, and the inaugural Carr Classic Tennis Tournament. Their hard work paid off as St. Mary’s captured the Special District 3 Championship on the Oregon Coast.
The Crusaders qualified four entries for the state tournament after an impressive district performance. Ben Smith won the district singles championship, Luke Oliva placed third in singles, Bennett Peterson and Caswell Dorcak captured the district doubles title, and Case Johnston and Clark David earned third place in doubles, with all four entries securing state tournament berths. At the state tournament, every St. Mary’s entry won its opening-round match and remained in the main draw throughout the event. Ben Smith finished third in the state, highlighted by a victory over the tournament’s No. 2 seed. In their first state tournament appearance, Bennett Peterson and Caswell Dorcak earned a fourth-place finish and a spot on the podium. Their efforts, combined with strong performances from Luke Oliva, Case Johnston, and Clark David, helped St. Mary’s secure a third-place team finish at the state championships.
While the results were remarkable, what made this season truly special was the way the team competed. The Crusaders consistently demonstrated sportsmanship, resilience, positivity, and pride in representing their school both on and off the court. Their ability to support one another, embrace challenges, and find joy in the process made this a season to remember and a year that set a new standard for St. Mary’s tennis.