Niskayuna sophomore Olivia Dartawan has advanced to the state championship match after winning her semifinal and quarterfinal matches at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Dartawan, the previous state runner-up, is determined to improve her last year’s performance by securing the title. She claims that her past experience has given her confidence, aiming to stay relaxed and focused on playing well against Angel Walia in the final. The tournament began with a field of 32 competitors, and Dartawan dominated her matches, only dropping a few games.

By the Numbers

• Dartawan won her first-round match 6-1, 6-0; second-round match 6-3, 6-0; quarterfinal 6-1, 6-0; and semifinal 6-2, 6-2.
• Last year, Dartawan finished as the state runner-up with a previous loss recorded at 6-1, 6-1.

State of Play

• Dartawan’s opponent in the state championship will be Angel Walia from Herricks High School.
• Other local athletes, like Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake’s Ostrander and Koivula, gained confidence by placing in doubles action at the state championships.

What’s Next

Dartawan’s performance will be put to the ultimate test in the state final, where a win would fulfill her goal of surpassing her runner-up status from last year. Meanwhile, other local players are positioned to compete for placement in upcoming matches.

Bottom Line

Dartawan’s disciplined approach and prior experience have set her up for a significant opportunity to claim the state title, showcasing her growth as a player and determination to excel under pressure.