He had no idea he would have a high school career that included 100 wins in match play for Saratoga High. He had no idea he would be the leader of a championship team during his senior season.

And he certainly did not dream of being his school's first All-American tennis player.

So imagine Kerin's surprise recently when the mailman delivered notification that he had been selected as a 2004 High School All-American.

He was one of 40 boys and 40 girls from athletes across the United States to receive the prestigious award from the National High School Tennis All-American Foundation, an organization dedicated to enhancing the visibility and recognition of high school tennis throughout the United States.

Four other area standouts also have been named to the team. Phil Kao of Archbishop Mitty and Ken Kao of Monta Vista are boys All-Americans. Cupertino residents Lejla Hodzic (Pinewood) and Tiffany Lee (Menlo) were tabbed to the girls team.

Although the award was not expected, it should not come as a surprise to anyone who has watched Kerin play tennis the past four years.

Kerin played at the number one singles position on the varsity team all four years of high school, and he was named the team's Most Valuable Player three times. 2004 was an amazing season, as he led the Falcons to SCVAL DeAnza Division and Central Coast Section championships, as well as a second-place finish in the Northern California team tournament. In addition, Kerin advanced to the semi-finals in the individual CCS tournament.

Tennis has been great for Kerin, allowing him to "travel to many new places which he would never be able to go otherwise," he says. Although the schedule can be demanding at times, Kerin enjoys "the competition and meeting all kinds of new people."

When asked what is the most difficult part of tennis, Kerin does not hesitate.

"It's the mental game without a doubt," he responds. "The game is 90 percent mental and 10 percent physical. It all starts in the head.

"During a match I try to stay positive and avoid the negative thoughts. I concentrate on controlling my breathing and even talk to myself to try and keep the mental part of my game going."

But Kerin certainly does not neglect the physical aspect of the sport.

"I work on training very hard," he says, "and I am dedicated to staying in good physical condition."

Kerin will have the opportunity to test his skills at the next level. Santa Clara University recognized his talents and has granted Kerin a partial scholarship to play for the Broncos in the upcoming season.