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By: Dustin Miyakawa, ISC-Staff Writer
Updated: September 18, 2002
Once again, the Iolani Boys Junior Varsity Tennis Team is lighting up the courts with style; but after school you won't find them racking up the sets at a court near you. Due to the ongoing construction, the boys were forced to alternate locations for practice and matches. Each day, they lug their books and gear out to Makiki Field for the everyday practices. All matches this season will also be away.
That is not the only thing that has changed. The Iolani Tennis Staff has welcomed a new coach, Freeman Sasao. Along with returning coach, Mike Burger, Sasao has helped shape the Iolani Junior Varsity Team into the tennis machine that it is today. Daniel Adachi ('06) remarks, "Freeman's really helpful. He gives you advice for your shots."
Michael Igawa ('05) seems to agree. He says, "Freeman helps out individuals. He corrects our strokes and volleys, and pushes us to become better players and athletes."
Junior Andrew Llarenas remarks, "I think Mike needed [Sasao's] help. There are so many guys."
The entire team seems to agree that Sasao has added a new perspective on the game, and gets close enough to the players to relate with them as well as tuning their strokes to
perfection.
As if these transitions were not enough, returning coach Burger has altered his coaching style as well.
Sophomore Thomas Robillard notes, "Coach [Burger] is stressing on discipline and staying fit. He's really drilling the doubles techniques into our heads."
While this new outlook involves more drills and fitness training, Robillard goes on to say, "When it comes time for matches, I'll have a lot more fun when I win."
Llarenas ('04) adds, "I think he is more comfortable coaching us."
Junior Nick Nishiura sums up the new philosophy by saying, "We are not just playing, we are improving. We are goal-oriented and have more experience."
Things have definitely changed over the past year. However one thing that comes around this time of year has not changed, the U.S. Open. As the Iolani boys gear up for the upcoming season, the action is already hot in New York, and the team's unanimous favorite is "Pistol Pete" Sampras himself. After upsetting the number-three seeded Tommy Haas, and defeating Wimbledon Champion and fellow American Andy Roddick in a three-set extravaganza Thursday night, Sampras has gained the entire team's respect
and admiration. While Sampras seeks his first win since 1999, the Iolani team will be in search for their second ILH championship.
With new courts, a new coach, and an old coach with a new attitude, the Iolani Tennis Team certainly have their hands full this season; but the team has accepted these challenges, and is ready for the coming season.
