By Rich Chrampanis
WEST WINDSOR – It was familiar territory for one of New Jersey’s great tennis towns and a historic first for a team that took the next step after losing in the state finals a year ago.
The Holmdel girls tennis team won the Group 2 state championship for a fourth consecutive year, while Colts Neck won the school’s first girls tennis state championship in Group 3. Both teams clocked narrow 3-2 victories in the state finals.
“Winning the first varsity girls tennis state overall Group 3 championship in Colts Neck High School history was incredible,” coach John Corrado said. “After winning the sectional last season, the girls came into this season wanting more.”
Freshmen Veronika Matulskaya (first singles) and Vera Koval (first doubles) strengthened an already stellar lineup in 2025. A year ago, West Windsor-Plainsboro North blanked the Cougars 5-0 in the state final. This time around, Matulskaya and Lauren Jarmon gave Colts Neck a 2-0 lead, setting the table for Kova and Sophia Valente to clinch the state title at first doubles.
“Senior co-captains Lauren Jarmon and Valentina Wagar provided leadership, direction and encouragement to the rest of the team,” Corrado said. “It was their belief in themselves that allowed them to continue to work hard all season while constantly encouraging each other. I was truly blessed to have a great group of young ladies.”
Paige Piscatelli got the Hornets a point at second singles. The other two points came from the Hornets’ doubles teams, highlighted by Mysha Khan and Audrey Wang rallying from a 4-0 deficit in the first set to score a 7-6, 6-3 straight set win to clinch the championship.
“Our girls played so well and it means so much to win the title four years in a row,” Piscatelli said. “Keeping up the tradition of Holmdel tennis is so important to us and we try to give our all on the court to maintain that tradition. Overall, it was a very hectic and energetic day but I’m so glad we came out on top and get to continue the Holmdel tennis legacy.”
The article originally appeared in the October 23 – October 29, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
