After entering the tournament unseeded, the Mid-Atlantic Intersectional Boys/Girls 16s team could not be stopped, defeating Southern 6-3 in the championship final. The team, which brings together top junior players from across the Section, was coached by Brian Fleishman, who saw the players develop over the course of the tournament.

 

"It was a great experience for me to see this group of individuals come together as a team that laughed off the court and were very professional on the court," Fleishman said.

 

The USTA Intersectional Championship is a battle of players representing each of the 17 USTA Sections, and team matches consist of both singles and doubles. The team is made up of boys and girls, who are selected based on their performance at competitive junior tournaments.

 

Before advancing to the final, Team Mid-Atlantic placed first in their round robin group and then proceeded to take down a tough Texas team by a score of 6-3 in the semifinal. ADVERTISEMENT Throughout this incredible run, Coach Fleishman said the players never let their nerves get the best of them.

 

"Heading into the finals, everybody was confident and relaxed," he said. "This team was talented, together and selfless."

 

Players on the championship team included Ayana Akli, Ricky Bell, Andrew Dale, Cat Gulihur, Zoe Howard, Evin McDonald, Chidimma Okpara and Spencer Whitaker.