The Newton County Academy tennis team pulled off a rare feat Wednesday, winning both the MAIS Class AA boys and girls state championships.

The boys squad captured the No. 1 and 2 singles matches and No. 2 doubles match, while the girls won the No. 2 doubles and No. 2 singles.

“Really, our senior leadership led the way,” NCA tennis coach Pete Mazzella said. “We have a group of seniors who had a lot of experience, some of whom have been playing since the sixth grade. It just really added up to a great season. We had a great regular season then had a good South State tournament that was a little disappointing. State couldn’t have gone much better than it did.”

Mazzella said he knew the boys had a great shot to win, and he felt the girls would need something special to happen to come out on top — which happened. NCA defeated Trinity Episcopal in girls doubles, a team which defeated the Lady Generals last week in South State.

“The was the point difference,” Mazzella said. “We lose that match, then Trinity wins (state), and we’re second.”

Given how rare it is for a girls and boys team to win state in the same year, Mazzella said it was a special finish for him to watch.

“I don’t know the last time that’s happened,” Mazzella said. “It’s almost overwhelming. My assistant coach, Todd Tindall, and I were on cloud nine afterward. It’s so special for both sides to win. You usually won’t win both, so when you go you expect it to be bittersweet, but this one was totally sweet.”