SANDUSKY — The SMCC boys tennis team kicked off its season in strong fashion Monday evening, edging Sandusky 3-2 in a competitive season opener to begin the year 1-0 overall. The Panthers were powered by a key singles victory and a sweep in doubles play to secure the narrow win. At first singles, Pravir Gorty delivered a solid performance, defeating Blake Ott in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3. Gorty showed composure late in the opening set, overcoming adversity to gain momentum and close out the match. Sandusky responded with wins at second and third singles. Brady Mullins rallied past SMCC’s Eian Etchill in three sets, 1-6, 6-4, 6-1, while Ishan Chopra topped Jack Davis 6-4, 6-3. Doubles proved to be the difference for SMCC. The first doubles team of Luke Spicer and Pavan Gorty dominated their match with a decisive 6-1, 6-0 victory over Liam Chamberlin and Ian Stiner. At second doubles, Carter Snyder and freshman Michael Linkenbach secured the match-clinching point with a 6-1, 6-3 win against Sam Milas and Zeke Cutcher. In junior varsity action, the Panthers completed a sweep of Sandusky with a 3-0 victory to also start their season at 1-0. Mason Russell led the way with a 6-1 win at first singles, while the doubles teams of Matt Gebard and Luke Evans (6-2) and Mason McCune and Jace Kubitz (6-4) added victories. Head coach comments highlighted the team’s ability to manage early-season nerves while showing promise across the lineup. “Overall, I thought we played very well in certain spots throughout the night,” the coach said. “We had to work through those first-match jitters but did a pretty nice job of handling them in most spots.” The coach also praised the doubles units for “taking care of business” and noted strong efforts from Etchill and Davis despite their losses. At the JV level, the team’s readiness stood out. “The JV came ready to go and played some really nice tennis tonight,” the coach added. The match also marked milestones for two underclassmen, as freshmen Michael Linkenbach and Jace Kubitz each recorded their first career victories. SMCC returns to action Tuesday, opening conference play at home against Fremont St. Joe at 4:15 p.m. at the City of Sandusky Tennis Complex.