The Svantner Sisters – Nicole, Samantha and Jackie – often are mistaken for each other around Clarkstown South High School in Rockland County. They are triplets, so this is common.

On the tennis court, however, the young ladies are quite distinguishable, and they are helping the Clarkstown South Vikings build a successful program.

Nicole and Samantha are a strong one-two punch, an undefeated tandem in doubles play, achieving a 12-0 record as of this past October. They also have not lost a single set in 20 straight matches dating to last season. The outgoing and boisterous Nicole serves as a vocal presence in practice. Samantha keeps an eye on the smaller details.

Jackie, meanwhile, is a singles player with an 8-3 record as of October. She has enjoyed a number of come-from-behind victories, exhibiting extreme poise during tiebreakers. Jackie found her niche and success on her own.

“I’ve coached twins, I’ve coached brothers and sisters, but it’s the first that I’ve had…triplets,” said Coach Ted Mascola. “They’re also a wonderful family, great kids, they’re great teammates, and they can play tennis.”

The Svantner girls have achieved success despite their late arrival to the sport. They each received lessons at a young age, but all three preferred to concentrate on soccer. Injuries (torn ACL, concussion and other mishaps) convinced each sister to again pick up the racket.

“They played soccer, they ski, they golf, and they came to tennis a little bit late, but they’re athletic,” he said. “All the cross-training they’ve done paid off on a tennis court. … I think soccer helped their footwork. Other sports helped their hand-eye [coordination], and they’ve just worked at it. They also have a lot of intangibles like mental toughness…”

The trio plans to play tennis in college. They have toured SUNY schools and other colleges. Their plan is to attend college as a team.

In New York, baseball has Aaron Judge and Pete Alonso while hockey has Henrik Lundquist and Mathew Barzal. As for bowling, we have Nick Varano. At only 17, the North Rockland High School student is the best bowler in the Lower Hudson Valley of any age or gender.

Earlier this year, Nick showcased a 242 average in a local league and a 235 average for the high school season. He threw two 800 series and one perfect game late last year.

Nick’s varsity accomplishments become more impressive when you learn that the Rockland County high school league is spread among three different bowling alleys in three different communities. No home alley advantage for this bowling star.

“He’s like a freak,” stated a former coach who was very successful during his bowling career. “But in a good way.”

The freak analogy must run in the family. Nick’s sister, Danielle, is an eight-time member of Team USA and she currently is one of the leading women bowlers in the world for the Professional Women’s Bowlers Association Tour. Even she stated what has become obvious: “He’s a freak of nature,” she said lovingly of her 6-foot-3 brother.

Though he has been so successful at such a young age, Nick has little interest in headlines and accolades. His personal goal always is a team goal—win the state championship.

Nick has thought about turning pro during the last few years. First, though, he wants to complete college and think about his options not just for bowling but for his life. Many coaches feel that Nick can be a PBA Tour titlist. We’ll just have to wait to learn what Nick decides.