Leadership and maturity pave way for men's tennis team

KEVIN BRADY

Staff Writer

The Alma College Men’s tennis team is committed and ready to have a breakout season in 2004. By taking the right steps to be the best they can be, look to this team to be a surprise in the MIAA. “We are doing a strange new thing this year, I think it is called conditioning”, says Rob Nicholson (04).

Nicholson, a fourth year veteran, returns for his senior season as co-captain. Senior leadership will play an important determinant in the success of this year’s team. Return-ing for their final season as well is Matthew Krieg (04), Tim Slade (04), and Matt Baleja (04). The impressive Krieg will look to improve on his fourth place finish in last year’s MIAA tournament.

Along with the seniors is a talented group of young players led by the emerging Tristan Wilson (06). The match experience he received from last season forced him to improve on the strengths and weaknesses of his game. Along with Wilson, three freshmen will make their presence known for the Scots. Coming off strong high school careers, Nick Green (07), Drew Martin (07), and Matt McLaughlin (07) look to maintain success throughout their col-lege careers. Senior Dan Arner (04) has joined the team for this season and looks to make a strong contribution.

Second year coach Brandan Snook has benefited from his rookie season. “Brandan has been on the ball, setting up matches and practices, making sure things are getting done”, Nicholson says. “Our tough early schedule will determine how our season will go and how we compare with other MIAA teams.”

Snook has been able to perpetuate a schedule for his team to maximize their performance for this season. Snook refers to this group of men as a “much improved team.” He goes on to say, “The most important attribute will be the leadership and depth of our team.”

Once again this season, the MIAA will be highly competitive. Look to Hope and Kalamazoo to be once again the top contenders for the league crown. The men’s team begins their season on February 20th at the Mid-land Tennis Center against Lake Supe-rior State. Then, for spring break, it is off to Fort Myers, Florida to prepare for the tough conference season.

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