Following the graduating class of 2024, the Knights’ singles and doubles tennis teams had to replace a strong senior class. However, the Knights have had countless contributors step up, such as seniors Max Snyder and Nick Patter, alongside several underclassmen. As the 2025 WPIAL boys’ tennis season unfolds, the Knights Tennis Team is making true momentum on the courts under the leadership of Coach Vilage, who has been leading the team with principles of dedication and consistency in order to achieve their now 6-1 record(norwinshs.big team.com).
The Knights showcased a solid performance this season, reflecting the dedication and hard work during the off-season. Senior Max Snyder, playing singles, has been a key player for the Knights, as he has consistently brought leadership, skill, and effort to the courts and is 5-2 on the year. Time after time, he sets the tone with his success and leadership. Complimenting him are senior Nick Patter and junior Michael Barone in doubles, and freshman Tanner Johnson in doubles, whose performances have been pivotal in securing crucial victories.
Coach Vilage brings a fun approach, not just focused on individual skills but on building the team together.
“We strive together and just try to have fun while winning,” Snyder said. “I have tried to help this team grow together and work towards the greater goal of WPIAL playoffs.”
As the season comes to a close, the Knights have fallen just short of WPIAL contention in singles and doubles, despite making a run in team playoffs. Finishing with a solid record and a series of impressive performances, standing at 6-2 in the section and 8-4 overall record. The team is set to make a significant impact.
”This season has been all about belief; belief in ourselves has been the key to being competitive in tougher matches at the end of the season,” said Patter.
WPIAL Results
Following the Knights success in the regular season the Knights finished 8-4 resulting in the Norwin receiving the 12 seed in the WPIAL Team tournament.
The Knights unfortunately fell short in the first round on Tuesday, April 28 by a score of 5-0 to Fox Chapel.
In WPIAL section singles, Tanner Johnson, who was seeded 17th, won the first two rounds in his bracket and then ended up falling short losing to the section singles champion, Adam Memije. Also in the section singles tournament, Max Snyder from Norwin seeded 7th won the first two rounds on his side of the bracket. However, Snyder just fell short in the third round, losing to tournament runner-up Zidaan Hissan. Also, certain Knights qualified for the section doubles tournament. Nick Patter and Mike Barone (9 seed) were successful in their first two rounds and unfortunately fell short to the Gateway doubles team, who went on to win. Als,o the Knights had Danny Metzger and Jack Momeyer qualify, who unfortunately fell short in round one. Despite the losses, qualifying for the WPIAL tournament is nothing short of success alongside a winning record. Go Knights!
