Chapel Hill alumnus Garcian D’Cruz, who failed to bring home the state title during his time as a high school tennis player, has led the men’s tennis team to an undefeated season of 15-0 as of April 24.
D’Cruz, who attended Chapel Hill and played tennis from 2009-2013, graduated from Elon University, where his club team went to the national championships in 2014. D’Cruz is currently seeking his United States Professional Tennis Association Certification.
When offered the coaching position, D’Cruz said he did not hesitate in accepting. He went into the spring season with ambitious goals.
“I wanted to coach tennis at CHHS because I was a player from 2009-2013 at CHHS myself and was never able to bring home the state title,” he said. “I want to coach this team to a state title and make Tiger tennis the best in the state.”
At 22 years old, D’Cruz views his youth as an asset to his coaching.
“I believe, as a young coach, I will bring a perspective that will be fresh and effective,” he said. “I remember what I had to put myself through to play high level tennis, and I know with the right work and attitude we can make these players state champs.”
Junior Jerry Cai is excited to be playing under D’Cruz’s leadership.
“One of the biggest changes is the positivity, commitment and confidence he brings,” Cai said. “I also respect how he is willing to dedicate much of his free time to see us succeed.”
Senior captain Zack Bolzan has also enjoyed the changes the new coach has brought to the team, including putting more emphasis on strength training.
“I think the new coach has helped the team with strength and conditioning,” Bolzan said. “He brings in experience having played at the collegiate level.”
Garcian also hopes to become the women’s tennis coach next fall.
In addition to being undefeated, the team is ranked in the top ten in the state. The team also beat East for the first time 20 years.
