May 20, 2002

SAN MATEO, Calif. - Santa Clara senior Victor Camargo received the Bronco of the Year Award as the men's tennis team honored its lone departing player at the team banquet Sunday afternoon at head coach Sean Burns' home in San Mateo. The team also celebrated its 18-victory season, its highest national ranking, and an undefeated home mark.

Freshman Francisco Zepponi received the Mad Dog and Rookie of the Year awards while junior Erich Chen earned the Most Improved award. A special gift was given to Marcus Johnson, who was named the team's Fan of the Year. All team awards were determined through a vote of the players.

The Bronco of the Year award has been given annually to the player who best exemplifies what it means to play Bronco Tennis, including attitude, effort, support of teammates, results and best representation of the program. Camargo, the squad's only senior this season, earned 19 singles victories and finished his career tied for the most combined doubles victories in a season, with 20. Known by his teammates for his support, Camargo thanked his team and coaches for supporting his lifelong wish.

"Today is an end of a dream for me," Camargo, of Moroleón, Guanajuanto, Mexico, said. "Ever since I was four, growing up in Mexico, I wanted to come to the United States and play tennis. Thank you to everybody for making me feel welcome and for being good friends."

Zepponi's honor was named after former Bronco and 2000 graduate Scott Watters, who earned the nickname Mad Dog for his abilities to come through in the clutch when his team needed it the most. Zepponi shattered the single season victory mark in Bronco recordbooks with 30 wins. He produced a 10-match win streak while going undefeated in dual play in March and won nine straight during fall action, taking two titles. His efforts also earned him Rookie of the Year accolades.

After playing No. 6 singles as a freshman, Chen moved up two spots in the lineup this season and made a huge contribution to the team's success with his stellar doubles play. He teamed with sophomore Rick Ruso at No. 1 doubles during the season, earning All-West Coast Conference honors while defeating a nationally-ranked tandem from Fresno State to close the regular season. In singles, Chen clinched four team victories in six matches during the Broncos' 12-match win streak. He finished with 25 wins, including eight straight in March.

Johnson, named the team's most passionate supporter this past season, attended every home match while also following the Broncos on the road. His appearance at the WCC Championship in Moraga, and regular season battles at USF and Fresno State boosted the Broncos' spirits.