Hosseini claims D-1 section tennis championship

Arad Hosseini wanted to be a part of a team section tennis championship and then he wanted to win an individual section championship. Mission accomplished. After he and his Granite Bay teammates defeated Davis 5-4 to win the Sac-Joaquin Section Division I title, he won an individual section title, beating AJ Zwetsloot of Oak Ridge 6-3, 6-1 in the championship round. While Hosseini won in straight sets, the tournament didn't come so easily, as in the second round he had to go to a tiebreaker to defeat Vista's Brandon Ho, 4-6, 6-3 (10-7) and then went to another one in the third round before beating Matthew Kuang of Cosumnes Oaks 4-6, 6-3 (10-4). "This was a goal of mine," Hosseini said. "I really wanted to win to represent my team and school in a big way. I really wanted to win the team and individual section championship in one season." Hosseini, only a sophomore, had to overcome some adversity during the tournament. "The key was focus and mental perseverance," Hosseini said. "There were a lot of times when I was down and out but still won because I wanted it so bad. My serve and volley came in clutch a lot and that won me the tournament." Hossenini said he's an aggressive player who goes after and gets a lot of winners. His coach agrees. "Arad's strength as a player is his footwork, ground strokes and serves," Granite Bay coach Rusty Mendoza said. "He's an offensive player and attacks the ball out of the gates whether he's serving or returning. He hits a 'heavy ball,' as we say in tennis and can make shots from all angles. His footwork is impeccable, as he creates the right space on the ball and hits with balance. He's also in incredible shape and is very agile with good speed and endurance to outlast his opponents in long rallies." Hosseini said his forehand shot and his ability to play at the net are his strengths. He hopes to play at the collegiate level.

Hosseini claims D1 section tennis title