Men’s tennis looks to build momentum going into the spring season
The Blugolds begin spring season 3-1 after splitting weekend matches against Bethany Lutheran and Gustavus
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The Blugolds Men’s tennis team has started their spring season with 3-1 record.
Building off a winning weekend to start the season, the UW-Eau Claire men’s tennis team split their two matches while on the road last weekend, defeating Bethany Lutheran (Minn.) before losing to Gustavus Adolphus (Minn.).
The Blugolds went 17-7 overall last season, making it the eleventh straight spring season they have won at least 10 meet victories. Looking to improve upon last year’s success, coach Tom Gillman is ready to see what his players can do despite their recent injuries, he said.
“Overall it has been a good start to the season,” Gillman said. “We did more things than it appears. We competed well. Defeating St. Cloud State University (Minn.) and St. John’s University (Minn.) were great first wins.”
Coach Gillman is looking to senior Kyle Hoffman to make major strides of success this season. Hoffman is the No. 1 singles player to start the season. Gillman said he is also excited for his freshmen class. With freshmen filling five roster spots, everyone needs to be ready to play at any given time, Gillman said.
The four returning players are the ones the team will lean on because of their experience on the court. Hoffman, Will Weyenberg, Michael Mauthe, and Andrew Dahl are the four returners who will strive to lead the young team Gillman said.
“If Kyle, Will, Mike and Andrew keep doing what they’ve been doing and the rest continue to gain experience, this team will be extremely exciting,” Gillman said.
As they have been in the past seasons, UW-La Crosse and UW-Whitewater will be the toughest matches for the Blugolds. Last season the Warhawks from Whitewater boasted a 22-8 overall record and the Eagles from Lacrosse finished 21-3.
“Our kids are team-oriented; they work hard, are athletic and love the game,” Gillman said. “If we continue to work hard, grow as a team and improve every day, we will have a great season.”
The Blugolds look to keep their momentum going as they face off against the University of Northwestern (Minn.) and Lake Forest (IL.) at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at McPhee Physical Education Center and the Eau Claire YMCA.