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Richie and Marty Racanelli are twins from West Islip who grew up with tennis racquets in their hands.
“There are videos of us hitting toy rubber ducks with plastic toy kitchen pans like tennis racquets,” said Richie. The two started taking lessons at 5 years old while learning much from their parents, who both played.
Fast forward to today, the West Islip High School seniors just won their second consecutive doubles championship in Suffolk County Divison II.
“It was definitely cool,” said Richie. “We know how each other play and the shots we like to hit.”
Even though they have good chemistry, the twins didn’t start playing as doubles until their junior year. It wasn’t until Marty beat his brother in the singles championship in 2016 that the two joined forces.
They’ve been a dynamic team ever since. And they’re well-liked around the county.
“Every coach in our league sent a message to me to wish the boys luck,” said West Islip varsity tennis coach George Botsch. “They are the most respected players regarding sportsmanship and fair play.”
After high school, the Racanellis will be focusing on academics — with no plans as of now to play tennis — at college. Marty is attending Fairfield University and Richie planning to attend Boston College.
But that doesn’t mean they’re going to stop playing altogether.
“I feel like a hobby like this you’ll enjoy forever,” said Richie. “I am always up to give pointers to people.”
Top: (L-R) Marty with his brother Richie Racanelli after their big win.
(Photo courtesy of West Islip School District)
