Tie-breaker win crowns No. 30 Cech

Staff Reports
The Collegian

The drought doesn’t quite compare to the historical greats, but after 15 years, a Fresno State male tennis player has finally claimed the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Regional Title.

Fresno State senior Jakub Cech downed Washington’s Alex Slovic 6-7 (4), 6-2 and 7-6 (4), saving two match points in the process.

“This is a huge win for both Jakub and the Fresno State program,” said head coach Jay Udwadia.

“Jakub played extremely well throughout the entire tournament. He had no let downs and played his best when it counted.”

Prior to Cech’s victory, the last Bulldogs tennis player to claim the ITA Regional was Greg Anderson, who claimed the title in 1991.

Cech’s clutch play proved to be the difference in the match, as his two winners on consecutive match points for Slovic proved to be the deciding factor.

“It feels great to win a big one like this,” Cech said. “Coming into the match I was as focused as I’ve ever been.”

Cech’s victory over the 24th-ranked Slovic gives him two victories over ranked players this year.

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