Hawks’ tennis tournament run ends against powerhouse Lincoln-Sudbury 

The Waltham High School boys tennis team saw its postseason run come to an end Thursday with a loss to perennial powerhouse Lincoln-Sudbury in the second round of the 2026 MIAA Division 1 State Tournament.

The Hawks advanced to the matchup after defeating Bridgewater-Raynham 3-2 in a Division 1 play-in match on Wednesday, extending what proved to be a positive and encouraging season for the program.

Waltham qualified for the state tournament for the first time since 2022 after finishing the regular season ranked No. 27 in the Division 1 MIAA power rankings. 

“It’s been a fun year,” said coach Steve Baccari. “We’ve had competitive matches, success along the way and seen growth in the program. Across both the boys and girls teams this year, we’ve had about 45 players.”

The Hawks recorded two varsity match victories this season — against Burlington and Cambridge — their highest total since 2022. The team also recorded 10 individual varsity match wins. Leading the way were senior co-captains Andrew Samios and James Agostino, who combined for five wins at first doubles. Senior co-captain David Maione added two victories at third singles, while the second doubles pairing of senior co-captains Dylan Haley and Aryan Rampel contributed two wins. Haley also teamed with sophomore Andy White for an additional second doubles victory.

At first and second singles, sophomores Guillermo Alcantara, Jacob Weitz and Kyle Antonucci rotated throughout the season against some of the strongest competition in Division 1. Coaches praised their effort and willingness to take on many of the state’s top-ranked players.

The team was coached by Alexi Joannidis and Baccari, who also leads Waltham’s adult recreation tennis program.

The Hawks’ postseason appearance caps a successful year for the rebuilding program, though the team will face a major transition next season. Nine players, including five regular varsity contributors, are set to graduate.