University tennis coach John Kessler remains hospitalized; Trojans win regional

The University tennis team took first in the regional playing without its head coach John Kessler. (File photo courtesy University High)

University High’s boys and girls long-time tennis coach John Kessler remained hospitalized on Monday, according to University Athletic Director Tom Shrake.

The University girls team defeated Westlake to capture the Southern California Regional Championships Saturday. The team won without their head coach, who had been hospitalized.

It is not known the reason why Kessler was taken to the hospital or his condition and Shrake said he needed to “respect the privacy of John and the entire Kessler family right now. 

“What I can say is that he is hospitalized and tests are being run. His wife is with him and has been giving us periodic updates.  Right now, our thoughts are with John and his family … hoping and praying for a full and speedy recovery.”

Shrake prasied the effort of the girls tennis team.

“The girls tennis team showed great character and toughness, beating Westlake in the SoCal CIF regional championship,” Shrake said. “The format of the tournament (different team scoring format) created an added challenge. I think this victory shows how truly special this team is.  Congratulations to Coach Kessler, Coach Garrett, Coach Huson, and the entire Uni girls tennis team.”

The popular coach has led University to the CIF finals 18 times ( 11 for the boys and seven for the girls). He has led the teams to 12 CIF titles.

University’s girls team was upset by Santa Barbara 10-8 in the open division finals last week.

“We could not be prouder of how our girls played today and throughout this memorable season,” Kessler told OC Sports Zone. “Pacific Coast League champs, Point Loma Invitational champs, the top ranked team in Orange County and finishing the season with a record of 21-1 are just some of awards this year.”

-Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com