Newman’s Joel Rhodes and Sterling’s Aron Rivera wrap up state singles debuts

Sterling freshman Aron Rivera and Newman sophomore Joel Rhodes both got a taste of state singles competition Thursday as each made their debuts. Rhodes qualified for state doubles as a freshman.

Rhodes fell 6-0, 6-0 to Marmion Academy’s Benedict Graft in his opening match. Graft was runner-up at state last season. Then in the consolation bracket, Rhodes lost 6-2, 6-4 to Crystal Lake South’s Eryk Bucior to close his season.

Rivera dropped his first match 6-1, 6-1 to Jersey senior Dax Goetten. In consolation play, Rivera lost 6-3, 6-2 to East Peoria senior Connor Watson.