The Rangers forged a 1-1 record over two matches, upending local and district rival W.T. White, 5-1, on Tuesday before dropping their first match of the season to perennial state power Highland Park, 8-4, on Wednesday afternoon, ending the team's 6-0 start to the 2016-17 campaign.
 
Junior Nico Conejo teamed with freshman Patrick Moore at top-flight doubles against W.T. White, securing with an 8-2 victory, and sophomore Max Moundas and freshman Trey Moore picked up an 8-1 win at No. 2 doubles. In addition, Moundas, Moore and Stuart Buchanan won their respective singles matches.
 
"The guys W.T. White brought over were players we have seen over the past four years," commented Jesuit head coach Paul McDaniel.  "I know their program numbers are down, but the Longhorns always push you to play well."  
 
Highland Park entered Wednesday's bout as the top-ranked team in 5A, but the Rangers tied the Scots in doubles competition, 2-2. Senior Hayden Kissee and junior John Lindberg defeated Highland Park doubles team Cole Houseman and Matt Wojo at top-flight doubles, 6-2, 6-4.
 
In addition, freshmen Reid Staples and Diego Trejo won No. 3 doubles, 6-0, 6-2. However, a 6-2 Highland Park advantage in singles play proved the difference, despite strong efforts by sophomore Kota Ueshima and Elizondo.
 
"Losing is never fun, but our guys gave HP everything they had," added McDaniel.  "A better team beat us but I'm proud of how the team played today!" 
 
"The HP coaches were very impressed with those two freshmen (Staples, Trejo)," added assistant coach Andy Civello '97.  "These guys complement each other so well.  They are really going to help us the next four years." 
 
Next week, the Rangers will face three separate opponents over four days. Beginning the week against Berkner on Tuesday, October 4 at 4:15 p.m., Jesuit will take on Longview and Texarkana on Saturday, October 8.