UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown at the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League (SCCAL) Championships, Aptos sophomore Kiana Safari successfully defended her singles title, defeating Scotts Valley’s Aila Papadopoulos with a commanding score of 6-2, 6-0 on Thursday at Imperial Courts.
This victory not only marks Safari’s second consecutive championship but also secures her a spot in the upcoming Central Coast Section Singles Tournament, scheduled for November 17-19 at Bay Club Courtside in Los Gatos. The stakes were high, and Safari’s rigorous training over the summer at No Quit Tennis Academy in Las Vegas clearly paid off.
“I wanted to get into CCS,” Safari stated, reflecting on her motivation. “Last season, I had a tough draw, and I want redemption this time.” With an impressive record of 19-3 in her two-year varsity career, her ambitions are clear: reaching the quarterfinals or semifinals this year.
Papadopoulos entered the final with a solid game plan aimed at exhausting Safari, who is notably shorter. However, the strategy fell short against Safari’s powerful performance, showcasing her improved skills and physical conditioning. “She’s such a powerful player. A lot of her shots catch me off guard,” Papadopoulos admitted, acknowledging Safari’s growth since their last encounter.
Despite her defeat, Papadopoulos proved her resilience, competing in the final just hours before playing for the Scotts Valley volleyball team in the CCS semifinals. Balancing academics and sports, she is determined to secure her place at a UC school, with a preference for Cal.
In doubles action, Santa Cruz’s Francesca Garces and Julia Kennedy triumphed over Aptos twins Isabella and Natalia Calderon, winning 6-1, 6-3 to extend their season. The reigning doubles champions are also set to compete in the CCS Doubles Tournament on the same dates as Safari’s singles event.
Safari’s coach, Tamara Brown, praised both players for their efforts, emphasizing Safari’s ability to adapt and problem-solve during matches. “Kiana’s problem-solving and ability to adjust to her opponents is one of the keys to her continued success,” Brown noted.
As the tournaments approach, all eyes will be on Safari as she aims not just to compete but to excel. With the foundation laid in her offseason training and an unwavering drive, Kiana Safari is ready to make her mark once again in the competitive tennis landscape.
Stay tuned for the upcoming matches and further developments in this exciting season.
