The Bayport-Blue Point Phantoms are champions once again — and this time, they earned their title in thrilling fashion.
Bayport-Blue Point has now captured its fifth consecutive girls’ small school tennis championship, winning the Section XI title in a tight 4-3 decision over top-seeded Ross in Shoreham this past weekend. The Phantoms came into the game ranked number two overall, so this was a battle of the powerhouses.
The eventual victory of one vs. two was sparked by junior Lily Castka and her sheer will to win and her never give up attitude. Castka, facing Ross sophomore Brooke Saracco, found herself down 0-5 before mounting an incredible comeback to take the match and ignite her team’s momentum. Her determined performance set the tone for the Phantoms’ latest championship run.
Castka, who also claimed her first Section XI individual singles title just last week, will now compete in the NYSPHSAA Individual Championships at the USTA National Tennis Center in Queens next week.
While Castka’s heroics stood out, the championship was truly a team effort. Bayport-Blue Point’s fourth doubles pairing of Julie Willems and Phoebe (last name not provided) secured a pivotal win over Ross’s Sofia Arce and Chloe Stone, sealing the overall team victory.
With the championship triumph, Bayport-Blue Point improved its record to 18-2 on the season and now sets its sights on another challenge — defending its Long Island title. The Phantoms will face Cold Spring Harbor, a familiar opponent they defeated 3-2 last season to capture the regional crown.
For Bayport-Blue Point, this latest win adds another chapter to an already impressive dynasty built on resilience, teamwork, and competitive spirit. From Castka’s remarkable comeback to the team’s consistent dominance, the Phantoms continue to prove why they are the standard in Suffolk County girls’ tennis — and perhaps all of Long Island.