With the season near, both tennis squads work towards their goals while finding themselves in different places from last year.

The men’s squad will start the season officially ranked 13th in southern California, as well as having the number one ranked player. 

While the women’s team, with a sudden coaching change and a dominant freshman roster, look to gain experience this season.

“I will not be coaching this season due to work related injuries. Alvin Kim will be taking over the men’s and women’s tennis team this year.” Last year’s women’s coach Rosana Chatman said on the recent coaching change.

Both teams have a scrimmage at the end of the month and for Coach Kim who  only coached the men’s team last year, now has the responsibility of taking over the women’s team as well.

“This is strictly a rebuilding year,” Coach Kim said when explaining his expectations for the women’s team.

“[We will] keep them open about making this season an experience,” Kim said about a goal for his freshman-loaded squad, which should not be difficult for freshman Brianna Thompson, who the new coach sees as the key new player to the women’s roster.

Without any players with college experience, it might be difficult for the lady falcons, but with most of the ladies having played in their respective high schools, that should keep them competitive in a strong conference.

The men’s team, who is starting the season ranked at the 13th spot in Southern California, will try to bounce back from a difficult season.

Although one bright point last year for coach Kim and the school, was then-freshman Derek Siddiqui, who reached the state semi-finals for singles and became just the third tennis All American in Falcon history.  

“[I want to] Try and win the Ojai title and state title,” Siddiqui said about his personal goals for his sophomore season.

A muscle injury which may have cost him from going further in state last year, is said to be just in the past.

“No worries this year,” Siddiqui said on the muscle injury.

Siddiqui’s injuries are possibly the least of his problems now with his high ranking.

“Everyone is gunning for me,” he said when hearing of his pre-season no. 1 ranking.

With the season still weeks away, both Falcon teams will continue to practice until their first matches and although they may have some undefined roles, they look to leave their mark on the season.