The Dinuba High School boys tennis team made history this year, finishing with an impressive 12–4 overall record and going 9–1 in league play to capture their first league title in 19 years. It was a season filled with hard work, strong chemistry, and unforgettable moments..
“It was a super exciting year,” said Fadra Kiehn. “We had really strong players. They worked hard and came together as a team.” The team’s turning point came during senior night when Dinuba took on the league against Mission Oak. After losing to them earlier in the season, the team bounced back with a 6–3 win. “It was senior night. We beat them. We lost to them really badly, and we beat them 6–3, and so it was a nice end of the season.”
Coach Kiehn, who led the varsity team this year, was supported by longtime Mr. Nalbandian, the boys’ JV Coach. Team chemistry was also a big part of Dinuba’s success. “We had great chemistry,” Kiehn said. “These guys worked well together. If I stuck them with a partner that they don’t normally play with, they didn’t complain—they just figured out ways to work together and to play well.” The team adjusted seamlessly when the No. 1 singles spot changed midseason after a challenge match. “Nobody complained, nobody got mad. They just continued to work together to do their very, very best.”
Several players stood out, “Jacob Blades—he was undefeated in his singles matches in dual matches until playoffs,” Kiehn said. “Those were the only two matches he lost. Until then, he was undefeated. He did not get beaten by anybody.” Felipe Suarez, the team’s No. 1, faced tough opponents all year but still finished with a 9–4 record and placed second in the league tournament. “He just really worked hard as a number one player, and I’m super proud of him and his growth,” Kiehn added.
Another historic moment came when all six players who competed at the league tournament advanced to the area—a first for any boys tennis team in school history. “All six of my players who went to the league tournament all qualified for the regional,” Kiehn said. “That was a super exciting moment for us.”
The season wasn’t without its challenges. One of the toughest moments came during an away match. “I think the biggest challenge we faced was traveling to Atascadero, getting out of the van, and it was windy,” Kiehn said. “But they did not let the wind bother them at all. They faced it head-on. They pumped each other up and didn’t give up.”
She also shared what she tried to instill in the team this year. “They cannot allow themselves and their mind to stop them from being able to do their very best,” she said. “They have more ability than they realize, and they’re capable. They just cannot allow their mind and thoughts to discourage them.”
For students interested in joining, Coach Kiehn encourages them to start trying.” My biggest advice would be: any time those courts are open and available—and we’re not practicing as a team—you should be out there practicing. If you want to get better, you cannot just stay and allow it to be during the season. You have to go out on your own and continue to improve.”
