News Summary

Tej Bhagra, a promising junior tennis player from Rochester Mayo High School, has chosen to forgo defending his high school title in favor of competing in national tournaments. Currently ranked 34th nationally for the class of 2026, Tej reflects on his journey and the lessons learned while preparing for a future at Brown University, where he plans to join the Division I men’s tennis team. As he embraces this new challenge, he remains grateful for his high school experiences and friendships.

Rochester’s Tennis Star Tej Bhagra Takes a Bold Step Forward

In a surprising turn of events, Tej Bhagra, a talented junior at Rochester Mayo High School, has announced that he won’t be stepping onto the court to defend his high school tennis title this summer. Instead, he’s trading in his local matches for the excitement and challenges of national tournaments.

A New Chapter for a Rising Star

As one of the standout players in his class, Tej currently holds the impressive ranking of 34th in the United States for the graduating class of 2026. This marks a significant achievement for a young athlete who has consistently honed his skills since joining the Rochester Mayo varsity tennis team in seventh grade. Throughout his journey, Tej has built strong friendships with his teammates, which makes his decision all the more heartfelt. He took time to weigh his choices and consulted his understanding coach, Jeff Demaray, before deciding that national competitions would better serve his long-term ambitions.

Training for Success

The future collegiate athlete has his sights set on his commitment to Brown University, where he anticipates joining the Division I men’s tennis team in just two short years. Under the guidance of his coaches at Brown, Tej is intent on challenging himself against tougher competition. He recently participated in four national tournaments spanning two months, visiting vibrant cities like San Antonio, Atlanta, Mobile (Alabama), and Eau Claire (Wisconsin). Each of these experiences has been eye-opening, offering him critical insights and strategies to elevate his game.

Learning from Defeat

This season, Tej has faced stiff competition, transitioning from a flawless 26-0 record in high school to confronting defeats on the national circuit. He’s embraced these challenges as pivotal learning experiences, understanding that each match is an opportunity for growth. In fact, the intensity of these national rounds is akin to playing in the finals of a state championship — something both exhilarating and rigorous. Tej has focused on becoming a more offensive player while refining his baseline shots and strategies.

Team Spirit and Memories

Although Tej is pursuing solo challenges, he acknowledges the sense of community and camaraderie he misses from his high school tennis days. The bus rides, team events, and shared victories with his Mayo teammates have crafted cherished memories. Yet, despite these feelings, he’s filled with enthusiasm for the college tennis journey that awaits him at Brown, where he values the strong sense of team spirit, supportive coaches, and the positive environment that surrounds him.

Looking Back on Glory

Reflecting on his high school tennis journey, Tej looks back fondly at his perfect season and the unforgettable moment of winning the Class AA Individual Singles Championship. The thrill of competing in front of his family and friends created memories that will last a lifetime. His victory was not just a personal achievement, but a testament to his commitment and hard work throughout the season.

A Role Model in the Making

Tej’s teammates have often seen him as a beacon of inspiration. His dedication, work ethic, and focus during matches have established him as a respected leader within the team. He is sure to leave a mark in the Rochester sports community, serving as a reminder that dreams are worth pursuing, even if it means stepping away from the familiar for a chance at greater success.

The Road Ahead

As Tej embarks on this thrilling path toward national tournaments, he remains grounded in his love for the game and determination to improve. His story is one of ambition and courage, reminding all aspiring athletes that every setback is merely an opportunity to rise higher.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Boys Tennis Talent Shines in Rochester

Additional Resources