April 3, 2007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CLARK, NJ – The Johnson Crusaders boys’ tennis team opened up their new tennis facility and the 2007 season with a 4-1 victory over the Oratory Rams on Tuesday afternoon.

Prior to the start of the contest, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held to “officially” open the new courts that were renovated and repaved in the summer of 2006, and hosted several Johnson girls’ varsity tennis matches in October.

High School Principal Robert Taylor addressed the crowd and the team before he joined Johnson Tennis first year coach, Craig D’Amico, in cutting down the Crusader blue ribbon. “You have seen and been a part of many changes here at Johnson,” said Taylor. “Today we get to open up this beautiful tennis facility and you will get the opportunity to enjoy some of those changes…represent the Crusaders proud.”

Following the ceremony, Johnson got to work, defeating Oratory for their eighth straight season opening victory. The win was also the first career coaching victory for D’Amico, who is the first former Johnson player to come back and coach.

The Crusaders are at 1-0 overall, and 1-0 in Mountain Valley Conference play. One game into the season, Johnson currently stands in a three way tie for first place in the Mountain Division.

“Our guys were on the top of their game today,” said Coach D’Amico. “It was a great way for us to start the season and to open up our new tennis courts.” 

Johnson will next take to the court on Wednesday, April 4th as they host the Union Farmers in a non-conference match, and will travel to Roselle Park for a MVC conference clash with the Panthers on Thursday, April 5th.

RESULTS:

Arthur L Johnson 4, Oratory 1
Apr 03, 2007 at Clark, NJ

1. Chris Tylutki (ALJ) def. Patrick Stewart (ORA) 6-2, 7-5

2. Mike Keenan (ALJ) def. Matt Pigott (ORA) 6-2, 6-3

3. Luke Ginocchio (ALJ) def. Andrew Topazio (ORA) 5-7, 6-4, 6-0