Tennis isn’t exactly the most popular sport among the ranks at Lemont, sitting in the shadow of Baseball and Track and Field as a spring sport. However it requires the same amount of skill, determination and sportsmanship. Arguably, no two players currently represent that better than Co-Captains and 1st duos pair, Seniors Arjun Reddigari and Charles Balisalisa.

The team dubbed “dynamic duo” find themselves after 4 years spent with the program as captains along with fellow senior Ian Hartl. However these two share a bond like no other on the team. Being the first duos pair means they are the backbone aces. They are the best of the best Lemont High School has to offer when it comes to tennis, and they sure show it.

Reddigari and Balisalisa took their mantle as number 1 duos team after their impressive feat of reaching top 32 in the single A division of the IHSA state tennis finals in 2017. This is one of several achievements the two have taken over their years of experience.

But what exactly separates these two from the rest of their teammates? Why are they leading the charge? Varsity Coach John Deguzman provided a bit of insight.

“I think what really sets them apart is their drive. Both of them have a very unique standard of excellence that they place upon themselves. This is something we see more than just simply on the tennis court. In their academics, in all their extra curriculars, and I’m very proud to see them apply this on the tennis court. Seeing them play I mean, it’s just fun to watch. They have great chemistry with one another,” said Deguzman.

What is remarkable truly is the faith and comradery these two have with one another. They aren’t simply just the best individual players working side by side, they are friends and players who’ve played side by side for years growing and building off of one another.

Reddigari stated, “ I love playing with Charles. Charles was my first friend when I moved here in 4th grade and he and I have played tennis together since 7th grade. We were partners freshman and sophomore year, but decided to split up and do singles last year in order to improve our individual games. We’re back together for our senior year though!”

Balisalisa built on this saying “we’re combining our skills and coming back together to play doubles this time around to kick some butt and I can’t wait!”

The two have both also have sentimental reasons for their appreciation as captains. Filling the shoes of Alumni Peter Rogers and Faraz Longi, the seniors alongside Ian Hartl have been doing their best to lead the team.

Balisalisa said, “I have the honor of guiding them. I love getting to help teach the ins and outs of tennis because, on top of getting pass down what I know, it’s little homage to a younger, less experienced Charles.”

Where as Reddigari informed that “ It’s an honor being a captain this year. As a freshman, I never imagine myself in that position because my captains were so professional and talented. But now I believe I am ready to lead the team to success.”

The lead pair have already secured one victory in 2018, and are aiming for a spot in the final day of the state championship this year.

One thing is for sure, both staff and players are in unanimous agreement… that Balisalisa and Reddigari would easily beat Deguzman and fellow coach Scott Collins in a match.

Reddigari stated, “Coach Deguzman is phenomenal, but I think Charles and I are young enough to outlast them haha.”

Deguzman agreed, saying “Oh Charles and Arjun would beat us. The duo, they are difficult to handle. I have trouble against them even when an Alumni comes back to play or even with Ian and myself, it’s a battle. Collins and I, we’re older dudes. I give the nod to Charles and Arjun if they played against Collins and I.”