Some moments define athletes, and seasons define schools. This spring, the San Domenico community witnessed two such moments: a tennis player who refused to be counted out, and a golfer who rose above the field.
Toby S. ’27 wasn’t just battling opponents on the tennis court—he was fighting his own body. Competing as the #2 seed in the league tournament, Toby’s path to the title was a test of grit and determination. A lingering quad injury threatened to sideline him, but instead, it became a catalyst for his most inspired tennis yet. He dispatched Caden L. from Lick 6-1, 6-4 in the semifinals, then secured the league championship with a 7-3, 6-3 win over Stuart Hall’s Teddy M.
Toby’s celebration was short-lived. Just days later, he stepped onto an even bigger stage at the NCS Division 2 singles tournament.
Unseeded but undaunted, he opened with a dominant 6-0, 6-2 victory over Julian B. of Saint Mary’s CHS. In the quarterfinals, he staged a comeback against #3 seed Neo C. of Bishop O’Dowd, winning 1-6, 6-2, 6-1. But the semifinals brought his most challenging test. Facing #2 seed Lucas S. of Piedmont, Toby fell 2-6, 6-1, 6-1. Despite the loss, he still had an opportunity for a podium finish. In the third-place match, Toby again showed his resilience, defeating #4 seed Nick B. 7-6 (2), 6-3. “Toby had to play through pain in the finals,” says Head Coach Rob Jessen. “But his ability to stay focused, fight through adversity, and compete at such a high level is a testament to his character.”
For Toby, the journey has always been about more than just wins. “Winning the league championship was amazing, but playing at NCS was another level. I worked so hard all season and wanted to show what I could do. Even when it got tough, I told myself to keep fighting.”
That relentless spirit wasn’t just confined to the tennis court; it was mirrored on the fairways, where another Panther was turning in a championship performance of his own.
Oskar V. ’26 put together a masterclass in golf. Competing in the BACBCL League Championship, Oskar’s even-par 71 was a blend of brilliance and resilience. His round featured two eagles, three double bogeys, and more birdies than bogeys—a rollercoaster performance that ended with a three-stroke victory over Marin Academy’s Charlie H.
“Oskar’s focus is what sets him apart,” says Head Coach Russell Kessler. “He practices with purpose. It’s not just about swinging a club. It’s about improving every time he steps onto the course.”
The league title was another milestone in Oskar’s remarkable journey. But for him, it’s just the beginning. “I felt ecstatic achieving this title, but my goal to reach state, which is still at the forefront of my mind,” Oskar shared. “I learned a lot from that round and am ready for what’s next.”
Oskar now heads to the NCS Div 2 championships at Foxtail GC, hoping to continue his winning ways. His sights are set on NCS titles in Division 2 and 1, and a shot at state: a goal he’s willing to work for, one swing at a time.
Toby and Oskar didn’t just win titles; they raised the bar for SD Athletics. Their success is about resilience, focus, and a relentless drive to improve. They’ve inspired their teammates, brought pride to San Domenico, and set a new standard for excellence.