American River College’s men’s tennis team is off to a hot start. The team has won all but one of their matches this season and has played against high levels of competition.

Bo Jabery-Madison, head coach of ARC’s men’s tennis team, says the team trained hard for months before the season began. Jabery-Madison says all of the players have a commitment to winning and honing in on each individual’s skills before taking on other schools. 

“We wanted all of our guys to focus on fitness, identity and execution,” Jabery-Madison said. “We want to make sure each of our guys know themselves and their abilities to perform the best they can.”

The team’s long preparation has paid off. ARC is currently ranked No. 1 out of all junior college tennis programs in northern California. Jabery-Madison says that it has been an honor to represent the region and the team is ready to win it all. 

“We get to represent Norcal for the state championships again this year,” Jabery-Madison said. “We lost in the championships the last three years, but we’re favored to win it and we’re ready to take it all this year.”

Jabery-Madison says COVID-19 took away two years of their playing time, and they were anxious to get back on the court. He added that the players deserve all of the credit for their success this season. 

Micah Irwin, one of ARC’s top performers in singles and doubles, says that everyone on the team has been working to be the best version of themselves throughout the season. He says that sticking to his identity as a player has helped with his play so far this season.

“I’ve been focusing on my fitness and mental skills. I’ve also been trying to be more aggressive with my play,” Irwin said. “I try to make my opponents uncomfortable if possible and play to my strengths and skills.”

Irwin added the encouragement and coaching from Jabery-Madison inspires everyone on the team to perform at their best. 

“Everyone has been working their butts off and a lot of that credit goes to coach Bo,” Irwin said. “He’s been so dedicated to the players and all of our success is a reflection on him.”

For more information on the men’s tennis schedule, visit the Beaver Athletics website here.