MU Tennis Enjoys Successful First Day At Milwaukee Classic

Sept. 21, 2007

Milwaukee - The Marquette University men's and women's tennis teams both enjoyed successful opening days at the 32nd Annual Milwaukee Tennis Classic, hosted by the Golden Eagles at Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove.

The MU women, who are competing in their first action of the 2007-08 campaign, began play Friday morning by capturing three of their four doubles matches against Alabama. Seniors Shannon Brown and Maria Calbeto posted an 8-4 victory over Crimson Tide tandem Andrea Brenes and Bianca Svensson. Marquette duos Erin Watkins/Kylie Moore and Elly Strother/Maggie Wilson also earned wins for the Golden Eagles.

"I was really pleased with our effort in doubles," head coach Jody Bronson said. "We rallied in some matches and held the lead in others and played with some good energy."

Marquette's afternoon matchup in singles came against Texas A&M, which concluded the 2006-07 season ranked 25th in the country. The Aggies displayed their talent by sweeping each of the seven singles contests.

"We struggled in singles against a quality opponent," Bronson said. "We saw today the level we want to get to and that will end up being a great benefit."

The Marquette men's squad opened play with singles competition, splitting eight matchups with familiar opponent Ball State. Sophomore Niko Boulieris picked up an impressive win (6-4, 6-2)against BSU's Jose Perdomo, who claimed the Flight "A" title in MU's season-opening event. Also posting winning decisions for the squad were Dusan Medan, Trent Hagan and Mark Rutherford. Medan and Hagan were both forced to claim victories in the tiebreaker.

"Niko has been playing at a high level and with a lot of confidence," head coach Steve Rodecap said. "He really responded to the challenge today."

MU began the season at the BSU Fall Invitational last weekend.

The men's team also posted wins in two of its three doubles matches against Wichita State. Boulieris and senior Pete Van Lieshout made quick work of their opponents, claiming an 8-1 decision. Rutherford and senior Brett Binkley also held on for an 8-5 win. Marquette's duo of Hagan and Medan fell victim to a WSU rally, however, MU's first doubles setback of the campaign. The Golden Eagles are now 13-1 in 2007-08.

"For this team to reach its potential and enjoy the level of success we believe is possible, we need to have a consistent contribution from our senior class," Rodecap said. "I am looking forward to us displaying our depth as the weekend progresses."