10sBalls Friend Abe Hewko Into CIF Quarters of CIF division

Written by: Staff on 27th April 2012

10sBalls Friend Abe Hewko Into CIF Quarters of CIF division |

10sBalls.com first discovered Palm Desert High’s Abe Hewko at the recent Indian Wells BNP Paribas and were struck right away by his big game, intensity on the court but yet calm demeanor off of it. He sat down with 10sBalls.com on Friday following his big Round of 16 win on Friday at The Ojai:

This is my third year playing The Ojai and I love everything about it. Two years ago I played in the boys’ 16s and I lost to my friend, Alex Gianinni from L.A., in the second round in a three set, third-set tiebreak. It was so tiring and there was a heavy mist coming down the entire match. I just remember being so mad after I lost. It was the first time playing him and I just remember wanting to win so bad.

Last year I came representing Palm Desert High in the boys’ CIF Interscholastic division and I made it to the quarterfinals. I lost to Johnny Wang in straight set in the quarterfinals. Two weeks later in the CIF-Southern Section Individuals I beat him so it was sweet revenge for me.

I’m back into the quarterfinals for the second straight time this year. I squeaked out a third-set tiebreak in the Round of 16 today. I’m just hoping to pull through again tomorrow and win the whole thing.

It would just be such a great tournament to win. There are so many college coaches out here watching and it’s just cool to have you picture up in the park.

I’ve already seen pictures of people I recognize, including my coach Ini Ghidirmic from 1998 when he played for College of the Desert.

I’m playing Tyler Pham out of the San Diego area tomorrow. I’ve never played him before but I know it’s going to be a tough match. If I win I’m going to have to play my best tennis.

Two of my teammates Jack and Austin lost today in the Round of 16 in doubles today. I’m traveling with my coach Randy Blaylock and assistant coach Greg Nye.

We’re staying about 40 minutes away in Thousand Oaks at the Best Western. We’re having fun but just trying to conserve energy for our matches, going out to eat and relaxing. It’s just great to have the experience and bonding time with your teammates. I think it’s really something I’ll remember for my entire life.

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