April 23, 2026

Written by Brad Peters

RIVERSIDE:  The Big VIII season turned to the league tournament in Boys Tennis, contested at Riverside’s scenic tennis center at Andulka Park.

Andre Olea, Aiden Rheem, Ian Do, Matthew Valdivia, and Chase Emmons were all awarded their Big VIII All League team patches.

“This is a great accomplishment for the MLK players to be acknowledged for their dedication and performance over the season,” said head coach Shaun Harris.

Andre Olea and Ian Do were the #2 seed in Doubles and were able to earn the win.  “It was a tough match that went to the 3rd set to decide who moved on to the finals,” said Harris.

The guys played big in the key moments to advance.

But not all went smoothly for the Wolves.  #4 seed Aiden Rheem and Mathew Valdivia came up short against the #1 seed.

“They competed well, but just couldn’t secure the games needed,” Harris said.

The two lost in the 3rd round match to end the tournament in 4th place.

Chase Emmons continued his dominant play in the Big VIII.  His #1 seeding was upheld and he secured his win and moves on to the Finals.

The finals was, fittingly, a battle of the #1 and #2 seeds from both MLK and Santiago High School.

In Doubles, Andre and Ian quickly dropped the 1st set 1-6, but then bounced back with a 6-1 set of their own. The match was decided by a super tiebreak set which the boys just fell short 6-10.

In Singles, Emmons started out well, but was unable to maintain the break and lost the 1st set tiebreak 6-8. The second set saw him down a quick break, but at the 4-5 game Emmons was able to get back on serve.

“Santiago’s player just wouldn’t budge after that and the set went into a tiebreak with Santiago winning 7-2 and the match,” Harris said.

“The boys worked hard and competed well today and I was very proud of the way they represented the team and the school,” said Harris.

By making it to the finals Chase Emmons, Andre Olea, and Ian Do all advance to the CIF Individuals Tournament