Who is Amalia Oganesian? Pawtucket Teen Makes Tennis History with Incredible Championship Win

A new name has been etched into local sports history. Amalia Oganesian, a homeschooled tennis player representing Shea High School, made history by becoming Pawtucket’s first hometown tennis champion in over 60 years.

Oganesian claimed victory at the Rhode Island Interscholastic League (RIIL) Singles Championship, held at Slater Park, after defeating Alexa Clark from South Kingstown. The 17-year-old athlete secured a 7-5, 6-1 win under bright autumn sunshine, bringing pride back to her city.

A Comeback Worth Remembering

Oganesian started the match slowly, trailing 5-1 in the first set. But she turned the game around with grit and determination, winning 11 straight games to clinch the title.

“Incredible,” Oganesian said moments after her victory. “I’ve dreamed of this for so long. To actually hold the trophy in my hands feels unreal.”

Her resilience showed through as she broke Clark’s serve when it mattered most. Once Oganesian found her rhythm, there was no turning back.

The First Champion Since 1964

Oganesian’s win marks the first Pawtucket singles title since 1964, when Bruce Kiernan captured the boys’ crown for the old Pawtucket West High, now known as Charles Shea High School.

“It feels amazing to bring this home,” she said. “My teammates are so supportive and humble. I love playing with them.”

Oganesian, who trains intensively while being homeschooled, joined the Shea team this year. Under RIIL rules, homeschooled players must compete for their district’s school, making Shea her rightful team.

Her Tennis Journey and Inspiration

Tennis wasn’t always the plan. “It started with one lesson a week,” Oganesian said. “Then it became two, three, four, five. I fell in love with the sport. That feeling when you’re on the court — it’s addicting.”

She models her game after Ash Barty, the former World No. 1 and three-time Grand Slam champion. Like Barty, Oganesian relies on smart play, quick movement, and precision rather than power.

“I love her forehand and all the slices from her backhand,” Oganesian said. “She’s such a talented player and a big inspiration.”

A Future Full of Promise

Her victory on Sunday wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. Oganesian’s passion, consistency, and mental strength have already made her a role model for young athletes in Pawtucket.

“Once I find my rhythm, I just keep going,” she said. “It’s all about focus and confidence.”

With this championship, Amalia Oganesian has not only brought glory to her school but also reignited the spirit of tennis in her hometown.