By Fernando Ramos
RTA Publicist

East Bay Champions Set Their Sights on Northern California Sectionals

RICHMOND, CA — History has been made in Richmond, and the journey is far from over.

The Richmond 4.5 team, led by Captain Jorge Salinas, has captured the East Bay Division Championship with a hard-fought victory over Washington Park, earning the opportunity to compete against the best regional champions in Northern California at Sectionals August 14-16.

The championship victory over Washington Park was a fitting conclusion to a season defined by determination, teamwork and growth. When the pressure was at its highest, Richmond found a way to get the job done and claim the East Bay title.

Now, the team will travel to St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California, where the stakes become even higher. Richmond will battle the other regional champions for a chance to advance to Nationals and represent Northern California on the national stage.

This marks the first time in RTA history that a 4.5 team has advanced this far. For the Richmond Tennis Association, would be another historic accomplishment adding to RTA's 4.0 Women's Team making it to Nationals in 2022.

The achievement is a testament to the dedication of the players and the leadership of Captain Jorge Salinas. Throughout the season, the team has developed not only stronger tennis, but also a deep sense of confidence, trust and camaraderie.

They have learned how to compete for one another. They have learned how to respond when matches get tight.And, most importantly, they have learned how to believe in themselves. That belief will be tested at Sectionals. Richmond knows it will be facing some of the strongest 4.5 teams in the region, but this team isn’t traveling to Moraga simply to celebrate its accomplishment. The East Bay championship has given them confidence, but it has also raised expectations.

They want more.

The goal now is to perform at their highest level, compete with the best, and see just how far this historic run can go. Whatever happens in Moraga, the 4.5 Richmond team has already etched its name into RTA history. But with confidence high, the team united and the biggest matches still ahead, Richmond isn’t finished writing its story.

From East Bay champions to Northern California contenders.

The next challenge awaits at St. Mary’s College.