2016 Desert Pines Boys Tennis Capsule

DESERT PINES

League: Class 3A Sunset League

Head coach: Jan Van Tuyl, first season

2015 record: 11-3 (6-1 Sunrise, second)

Returning lettermen: Five

Top athletes: Kevin Giron (Jr.), Adan Cano (Jr.), Kim Halasan (Sr.), Alfredo Murillo (So.), Oscar Murillo (Sr.)

Outlook: After a breakthrough season that saw the team finish second in the Division I-A Sunrise League, the Jaguars return five lettermen for Van Tuyl, who will coach both the boys and girls teams this season.

“It will be an interesting season,” Van Tuyl said. “The boys did quite well last year. It will be hard to do that well again. They have worked hard this summer, and I am pleased with what they have done, so we shall see.”

Van Tuyl expects to play doubles teams of Giron and Cano, and Halasan and Alfredo Murillo. Oscar Murillo is slotted in at singles with three new players aiming to fill spots.

“They are excited about the season and are looking forward to the learning experience,” Van Tuyl said. “Right now, they are having fun. That is the important thing. They will play hard and learn from every game.”