2009-2010 Men's Tennis Season Preview
08.20.2009
On the heels of a successful 2008-09 season, the Trojan men's tennis team will aim at maintaining their winning ways. With five of six starters returning, Coach Don Taylor certainly has the firepower to compete for a MCC title. The 8-3, 6-1 2008 Trojans finished only one spot out of the conference championship and all efforts will be aimed at capturing the crown in '09.
Taylor's major gap to fill comes from the graduation of Dave Smith, the Trojans' #2 singles player and MCC champion. However, depth should be a strength for TU this season if the freshman class is prepared for collegiate level tennis.
Felipe Bedon, MCC and ITA Regional champion, and NCCAA All-American, is the headliner in the Trojan lineup. Four seniors dot the roster, and each must do their part for the Trojans to grab a title. Bryce Perkins, Steve Erny, Jack Reed, and Eric True have the experience necessary to provide strong leadership this season.
Perkins held the #3 singles spot most of last season as well as teaming with Smith at #1 doubles. Reed, Erny, and True saw plenty of action at the 4, 5, and 6 singles positions. Reed and Bedon formed TU's #2 doubles tandem, while Erny and True also worked into the rotation at #3 doubles.
Sophomores Ben Evans and Andrew Gnagy will be battling for playing time in the lineup. Each gained valuable experience last season and should continue their progress under Coach Taylor's tutelage.
The freshman class consists of Jon Erny, Wes Nitzsche, McLean Roberts, Luke Tilden, and Mark Wynsma. Several of these newcomers have the talent to compete for starting positions giving the Trojans as much depth as any point in recent years.
Seniors Bryce Perkins and Steve Erny, along with junior Felipe Bedon will serve as tri-captains for the Trojans this season.
The Trojans open their season by hosting Cedarville on Aug. 28 at 6 p.m.