Prep athletes of the week: Como Park's Parsons represents city tennis

In its 35 years of existence, there never had been a section singles champion at St. Paul Como Park.

Until last week, that is.

Parsons, a junior, won the Class 2A, Section 4 singles championship, extending his undefeated record to 21-0 by beating Ryan Meger of Mahtomedi 6-4, 6-0.

"I'm really very proud of this," Parsons said. "There's not the same tennis culture in the city as there is in the suburbs, but there have been some superb players in St. Paul. It's helpful to be able to hit against some of those guys and utilize their experience."

Parsons is realistic about his chances when the Class 2A individual tournament begins Thursday, but he's looking forward to the opportunity to play some of the state's best players.

"Compared to last year, I've really improved," Parsons said. "I've been able to work on some things, like my mental game and my shot-making abilities. I haven't played many of the best players in tournaments, but I'm looking forward to it. It's a good, tough challenge for me to see how much I've progressed.

After posting a long jump of 19 feet, 8¼ inches during a national invitational meet in New York City in March, it seemed only a matter of time before the senior would better her new state record. She did that last week, shattering the record by leaping 19-10 at the Class 2A, Section 6 meet.

It's been a breakout spring for the sophomore. Two weeks ago, she won at 100 and 200 meters in the South Suburban meet, both in conference record times. Last week she won the same two events, as well as anchoring the winning 4x400 relay, at the Class 2A, Section 3 meet.

Sarff, a senior, was exceptional in the field and led the Robins in hitting en route to their sixth consecutive PI (Physically Impared) Division state championship. In three games, Sarff scored seven runs and had three extra-base hits, including a triple that was hit so hard, it broke the ball.

The sophomore sprinter was a three-event champion at the Class 2A, Section 4 meet, winning the 100 (12.08 seconds), 200 (24.42) and 400 meters (55.08). Her times in the 100 and 200 were section records. One week earlier, Hunter won all three events at the Suburban East Conference meet.

The senior won the Class 3A, Section 5 individual championship, shooting a two-day score of 73-70–143, winning by five strokes. His victory boosted the Panthers to the first section title in team history.

JIM PAULSEN