For the third time in five years, Sioux Falls Christian has claimed the Class ‘A’ boys state tennis championship — and this time, they did it with total dominance.
The Chargers won all nine possible titles, sweeping six singles flights and three doubles flights during the two-day tournament held at the Huether Family Match Pointe facility in Sioux Falls.
Sioux Falls Christian finished with a commanding 600 points. Rapid City Christian came in second with 390.5 points, followed by St. Thomas More with 363. Huron and Pierre rounded out the top five with 261 and 244.5 points, respectively.
Though perfection is rare in tennis, Sioux Falls Christian came as close as any team ever has.
“That was our goal,” said Chargers head coach John Williams. “These guys played their best tennis both yesterday and today. I’m incredibly proud of how they executed their shots and stayed confident throughout. Their hard work this year, on and off the court, really paid off.”
A Clean Sweep of Champions
The individual state champions in each singles flight were all from Sioux Falls Christian:
- Flight 1: Mitchell Hofer
- Flight 2: Rex Lefever
- Flight 3: Jack Squier
- Flight 4: Elijah Lindgren
- Flight 5: Logan Boyle
- Flight 6: Aaron Soroka
In doubles, the domination continued:
- Flight 1: Hofer and Squier
- Flight 2: Lefever and Boyle
- Flight 3: Lindgren and Soroka
Last year, the Chargers won five of nine flights en route to the championship. This year, they raised the bar.
“I think we were more focused this year,” said Coach Williams. “Even though we won last year, there was disappointment over not taking more flights. The boys came into this season determined not to let anything slip.”
Senior Spotlight: Aaron Soroka
Senior Aaron Soroka played a key role for the Chargers this year, earning his first spot on the varsity team. He capped off his final high school season by winning both his singles (Flight 6) and doubles (Flight 3) titles.
“I’ve always wanted to make varsity,” Soroka said. “Last year I was number eight. This winter, I played 15 tournaments and put in the most hours on the team. I’m proud to have earned my spot and win a state title.”
As the only senior on the roster, Soroka embraced his role as a leader. He partnered in doubles with eighth-grader Elijah Lindgren and focused on being a strong role model.
“I always try to set a good example — don’t cheat, be honest, respect your teammates,” Soroka said. “That’s what I tell the younger players.”
A Bright Future for Tennis in South Dakota
Coach Williams is not only excited about the talent returning to his team next season but also optimistic about the growth of tennis statewide.
“Tennis is alive and thriving in South Dakota,” he said. “Facilities are getting better, and coaches across the state are passionate about the game. It’s great to see more kids getting involved and loving the sport.”
The 2026 Class ‘A’ boys state tennis tournament will be held in Rapid City at the newly renovated Sioux Park complex.
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