ALTON - Alton High School boys tennis coach Jesse Macias has nominated senior Joe Ventimiglia for athlete of the month after Ventimiglia posted a 12-10 record and placed fifth at No. 2 singles in the Springfield JD Sinnock tournament over the weekend.
Ventimigilia is the Auto Butler Male Athlete of the Month for Alton High.
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Macias, who teaches in Alton High School’s social studies department and coaches the school’s girls and boys tennis teams, said Ventimiglia delivered the program’s best finish at the Springfield event, going 3-1 on the day.
“Joe has been a real warrior this year,” Macias said. “He had a shoulder injury early, and it slowed him down. But he has been playing great lately and had a big day in Springfield, going 3-1 and finishing in fifth.”
Ventimiglia is a four-year letter winner and was named to the SWC All-Tourney team last year, Macias said.
Macias said Ventimiglia’s impact has extended beyond match results.
“He works harder than anyone in practice, even when he was injured, and he is without a doubt our emotional leader,” Macias said. “He’s a great role model for our younger kids, and he does everything you want from a senior. He’s dedicated, industrious, and has a passion for tennis.”