This week’s devastator is Jason Daly `28 of men’s tennis. He played an important role in the team’s win against Saint Michael’s College in the Harold Alfond Athletics and Recreation Center on Friday, March 14.
Captain Josh Kaplan `25 and Diego Sosa `28 secured a sound victory in their #3 doubles match, but the real drama unfolded at the #1 spot. Daly and captain Jake Cohen `25 found themselves trailing 1–3 early on, but they quickly regrouped and mounted an impressive comeback. They won five of the next six games to close out the match, clinching the doubles point for Colby with a 6–4 victory. At the #2 spot, Aidan Kwong `26 and Marco Zeits-Segura `28 also triumphed in their match, contributing to Colby’s first doubles point win of the season.
The momentum continued to build as Cohen extended his dominance in singles play, winning his match at the #1 position. Following his victory, Daly took to the court at the #2 spot, showcasing a combination of stellar net play and strong groundstrokes to defeat his opponent 6–2, 6–3. This crucial win brought Colby within one point of securing the overall victory, which Marco Zeits-Segura sealed moments later with a win at the #4 spot.
Daly has been undefeated in singles play this season, holding a perfect 6-0 record. As Colby’s #2 singles player, he remains the team’s only undefeated player in this category, already making a significant impact in his first spring season at Colby.
Q&A with the Echo:
How are you and your team feeling at this point in the season and going into spring break?
Daly: I feel happy with how the team has rebounded after a tough start to the season. We have dealt with a lot of adversity already this season and I’m proud of how resilient we have been. We are all working very hard and looking forward to the spring break trip.
How would you describe your play style?
Daly: My play style is very aggressive. I like to put a lot of pressure on my opponents by coming to the net and mixing up my shot selection. I like to stand very close to the baseline to take time away from opponents and use my forehand to be aggressive.
What are some goals you have for yourself this season?
Daly: My goal for myself for this season is to make the NCAA tournament, but for now, I want to focus on winning as many matches as possible and supporting my team in the best way possible.
What is your usual mindset going into a match?
Daly: My mindset going into matches is very relaxed. I try not to think too much about the opponent and just focus on staying calm early in the match. I feel confident in my game that as long as I stay level-headed, the results will come.
What has been the most rewarding part of being on the team?
Daly: The most rewarding part has been the teammates and camaraderie I have developed with the group. Everyone is super supportive and helpful, and I think that is the most important part of playing on this team.
~ Layla Chai `28
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