Teen tennis player earns berth in U.S. Open Qualifier in San Diego

By Bill Tamburrino

Jessica Failla,14, has had a very busy and successful summer that included winning the National Tennis Tournament 16 and Under singles title at Lakewood, Calif., and making it to the finals in the 16U doubles competition.

Her strong performance at Lakewood earned the Ramona teen a spot on Team Southern California. Team So Cal took second place in the Intersectional Team Clay Court Tournament in Louisiana. That earned Jessica an invite to the National Clay Court Tournament in Virginia Beach as an individual.

Jessica’s biggest challenge is scheduled for Aug. 3-11 at the Barnes Tennis Center in San Diego. Because her national rankings have skyrocketed, Jessica has earned a berth in the Girls National Tournament, a U.S. Open Qualifying Tournament in the 16U Division that will be held at the Barnes Tennis Center. A first place finish there will get Jessica into the U.S. Open.

“The USTA Girls 16 and 18 National Champions are the most prestigious and important hard court tennis tournament for girls aged 18 and 16 and under in the United States. The most outstanding performers of the last year and the future of American tennis will be playing against each other often for the first time this year. Along with a national championship on the line, wild card entry to the main draw of the U.S. Open Women’s Championship for the 18’s champion and a wild card entry into the U.S. Open’s Junior Championship for the 16’s champion are at stake,” explained Jessica.

With some hometown fans behind her, Jessica could earn a trip to the U.S. Open Junior Championship in Flushing Meadows in New York City from Aug. 26 to Sept. 6. A trip to the Big Apple would be a nice way for Jessica to finish a great summer.

Hometown fans can watch Jessica play at the Aug. 3-11 Girls National Tournament. To find out what times she will be playing, call the tennis center at 619-221-9000.