After years of coming close, Cathedral Catholic boys’ tennis is finally on top.

The Dons defeated Francis Parker, 12-6, on Saturday at the Barnes Tennis Center to claim the CIF San Diego Section Division I team championship, marking the program’s first title since 2000. The victory follows six previous finals appearances since 2008, each of which fell just short of a championship.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment,” head coach Joe Barberie said. “It’s amazing.”

Cathedral Catholic’s title run was built on depth and a complete team effort. Every singles and doubles line contributed, with each position earning at least two points in the final.

Leading the way in singles was junior Jacoby Laws, the team’s No. 1 player and a consistent force throughout the season. He was supported by freshman Derrick Li at No. 2 and senior captain Marc Calderon at No. 3, and all three won two of their three matches.

In doubles, the Dons were dominant, winning six of nine matches. The top pair, junior Maverick Denton and freshman Gavin Gerken, got it started by winning 2 of 3. The teams of Nico Moegling and Wesley Utz, and Nathan Tran and Drew Campbell, each followed with two wins a piece to secure the team victory.

“Seeing them put away balls, seeing them work together and cheer for each other, it’s an amazing feeling,” said Moegling. “Watching your teammates be as successful as you are.”

The championship match showcased the team’s depth, especially against a strong Francis Parker squad, whose No. 1 singles player went undefeated. Despite that, Cathedral Catholic controlled the match with consistent play across the lineup.

“We all came together as a team, and I think that’s what mattered most,” Calderon said. “Every match mattered. We all support each other, clap for each other, and that unity brought us together.” Calderon was honored by his opponents with the CIF Sportsmanship Award.

The road to the title was anything but easy. The Dons battled through a challenging playoff bracket, defeating La Jolla Country Day in the opening round, San Dieguito Academy in the quarterfinals, and Carlsbad in the semifinals to reach the championship match.

Three years removed from a heartbreaking finals loss decided by total games, Cathedral Catholic left no doubt this time, finishing the job and cementing its place atop San Diego Section tennis.

For a program that had long been knocking on the door, Saturday’s victory was more than just a championship; it was a breakthrough.