The Byram Hills Boys Varsity Tennis team captured the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Division II team championship, the program’s first state title.
The Bobcats defeated Bayport-Blue Point 3-0 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens for the championship on June 12.
“Every player on the team worked hard all season and their grit, determination, sportsmanship, passion, mental toughness and hard work were all contributing factors to their victory,” Coach Jamie Taffet said. “Congratulations on this momentous occasion.”
The victory marked the sixth state title for Byram Hills Athletics and further cements Byram Hills’ reputation as Tennis Town.
“Congratulations to our athletes and coaching staff on an incredible season and a remarkable achievement,” said Scott Saunders, the District’s Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics. “Through hard work, dedication, and teamwork, they have earned their place in Byram Hills Athletics history.”
The team captain, senior Alex Lewis, said: “After five years of being on this team, and coming within a single win of the title twice, to finally get it felt so good.”
“Everyone did their part and everyone played amazing,” he said. “It was amazing in every way imaginable.”
Alex had high praise for Coach Taffet.
“She gave us all so many good tips throughout the match,” he said. “Speaking for the team as a whole, she held us to a high standard during practice, and it clearly paid off. Her vast knowledge was invaluable."
Continuing the tradition of honoring state champions, Byram Hills will host a parade through Armonk to celebrate the team on June 24 at 5 p.m. The parade will start at H.C. Crittenden Middle School, travel down Main Street and end with a ceremony at Town Hall.
In addition to Alex, the team is made up of Ethan Adamsky, Rajan Bobra, Nevyn Dani, Arun Das, Benjamin Davidoff, Nate Grossman, Theodore Lashmet, Brett Lipton, Vasily Ouyang-Christiansen, Matheus Paslar Bunemer, Jordan Perry, Leo Raff and Peter Weil.
Before this state title, the Girls Varsity Tennis team won a state championship in 2021, 2022 and 2024, the Boys Varsity Soccer team won in 2007 and the Boys Varsity Baseball team won in 2015.