By Wes McCurtis

CYPRESS, CA – Cypress College men's tennis player Samuel Whitehill is the third player from last year's team to sign with a four-year university. Whitehill will continue his tennis career with NAIA Hope International University next season.

"Coach Budai has put together a really strong team and I'm looking forward to competing at a high level. I hope to be a big part of that and help push this team up in the rankings," said Whitehill.

Despite having a limited role on a State Championship contending team last season, Whitehill is optimistic about next season with the Royals. According to Coach Benito, Whitehill is well prepared for next level competition and his role on the team last season speaks to the depth of talent in the Chargers' tennis program.

"Playing at Cypress for Coach Benito has prepared me for high level tennis and a strong team atmosphere," said Whitehill. "Cypress was a great work environment because every guy you hit against is extremely competitive, so it was very easy to grow as a player. As a team, we worked well together and became very close friends and going that far in state made us even closer."

"I am very proud of Sam and his accomplishment of making the Hope International Team. Coach Rebekah Budai at HIU is getting a hard working player who contributed to our team spirit while making a run at the State title last season," said Coach Jeff Benito. 

He plans to major in Business accounting or economics at HIU and pursue a career as an investment banker upon receiving his bachelor's degree.

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