Dom McLuskey is back in the island for a break after having won the USA Junior College rookie-of-the-year award. (Picture by Steve Sarre, 0582034)

DOM McLUSKEY has been named the USA Junior College rookie of the year. The 18-year-old Guernsey star led Tyler Junior College in his first season.

He finished the year ranked third nationally in singles and number two in doubles. But the icing on the cake came when he was crowned the rookie of the year at the recent Intercollegiate Tennis Associ-ation presentation banquet in Dallas.

‘It was a bit of a shock,’ said McLuskey. ‘I was wondering why I had to go as my coach didn’t tell me why. I didn’t realise I was going to win.’

The ITA has more than 250 junior colleges and one player was put forward for the accolade from each of the north, south, east and west sections. McLuskey, based in Texas, was the south’s choice. Playing number one for his team, the Sarnian finished the season with a record of 17 wins and three defeats.