WAIPAHU, O`ahu – University of Hawai'i sophomore Dennis Lajola won his first round match in the main draw of the USTA Honolulu Futures tournament, at the Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park Tennis Complex.

 

Lajola, the defending Honolulu Futures champion, defeated Johannes Robert Van Overbeek in straight sets, 7-5, 6-0 to advance to the second round. Van Overbeek took an early lead in the first set at 5-3, but Lajola came back to turn the match around. Lajola's momentum prevailed and has now moved one round closer to defending his title. 

The sophomore is seeded No. 8 in this year's event. He will take on Adam El Mihdawy for a spot in the quarterfinals. Lajola holds a current ITF rank No. 787 and No. 89 in the ITA pre-season rankings. 

In other singles action, Rainbow Warrior senior, Sascha Heinemann fell in straights sets to No. 5 seed Andrey Kumantsov, 6-3, 6-3. Heinemann is currently ranked No. 1471 in the world and is No. 53 in the ITA pre-season ranking.  

Lajola is the lone Rainbow Warrior left in the tournament. Seven of the nine Rainbow Warriors were represented in the USTA's Pro Circuit singles and doubles tournament.  The pro circuit tournament continues throughout the week.

USTA Honolulu Futures
Main Draw First Round

Andrey Kumantsov def. Sascha Heinemann (UH), 7-6 (5), 7-6 (6)

Dennis Lajola (UH) def. Johannes Robert Van Overbeek, 7-5, 6-0