BREAKING: Aptos sophomore Kiana Safari has successfully defended her title at the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League (SCCAL) singles championship, defeating Aila Papadopoulos of Scotts Valley High with a commanding score of 6-2, 6-0 at Imperial Courts on Thursday. This decisive victory secures Safari a spot in the upcoming Central Coast Section Singles Tournament set for November 17-19 at Bay Club Courtside in Los Gatos.
The match, held just hours ago, showcased Safari’s extensive summer training at No Quit Tennis Academy in Las Vegas, where she prepared meticulously for the challenges posed by her opponents. Despite Papadopoulos’ strategic attempts to keep Safari on the move, Safari’s preparation paid off, allowing her to maintain control throughout the match.
“It was pretty fun,” Safari commented after her win. “We both played really well. There were a lot of really close games, 40-30 and deuce. She played so good. She has improved so much.”
This victory marks an impressive achievement for Safari, who has now improved her record to 19-3 in her two-year varsity career. The defending champion cruised through the tournament, earning two prior victories with double bagels, showcasing her dominance in the league.
In doubles action, Santa Cruz’s Francesca Garces and Julia Kennedy pulled off a stunning win over Aptos twins Isabella and Natalia Calderon, scoring 6-1, 6-3 and securing their place in the upcoming CCS Doubles Tournament, also at Bay Club Courtside on November 18-19.
Safari expressed her motivation for repeating as champion, stating, “I wanted to get into CCS.” Last season, she faced a tough draw in the first round, which ended her run early due to a back injury. “Redemption,” she said, now aiming for a deeper advancement in this year’s tournament.
Papadopoulos, who played the final before quickly shifting gears to compete with her volleyball team in the CCS semifinals, reflects the intense schedule that student-athletes face. She has balanced her tennis and volleyball commitments while also focusing on academics, aiming for admission to a UC school.
“It’s been super hard,” Papadopoulos noted. “I wanted to move her around a little bit. She’s a bit smaller, so I wanted to wear her down.” Despite her efforts, Safari’s growth and training proved too much, with Papadopoulos acknowledging, “She’s such a powerful player. A lot of her shots catch me off guard.”
Mariners’ coach Tamara Brown praised both players, commending Papadopoulos’ strategic gameplay and highlighting Safari’s adaptability. “Kiana’s problem-solving and ability to adjust to her opponents is one of the keys to her continued success,” Brown stated.
Safari, who has been inspired by her older brothers—both former champions—continues to push her limits on the court. “I haven’t taken a game off my brothers,” she said, emphasizing her rigorous training and the competitive nature of the SCCAL league.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Kiana Safari as she heads to the Central Coast Section Singles Tournament. The anticipation builds for what this talented sophomore will achieve next.
Stay tuned for updates on the CCS tournaments and the remarkable journeys of these dedicated athletes.
