Golden Eagles Announce Award Winners At Team Banquet
4/30/2008 12:00:00 AM | Men's Tennis
April 30, 2008
Milwaukee - The Marquette University men's tennis team recognized five individuals for their respective efforts during the 2007-08 campaign at the team's annual award banquet Wednesday night.
Sophomore Dusan Medan claimed the Most Valuable Player Award after posting an impressive debut season with the Golden Eagles. A transfer from Troy University, Medan posted a 30-10 overall singles record. That total included a 16-6 mark in dual match play, with a majority of his action coming at the No. 2 position. Medan's 30 victories led the team and his doubles record of 18-11 allowed him to account for 48 total victories.
"Dusan was our most consistent performer all season," head coach Steve Rodecap said. "It's a real testament to his abilities considering where he was playing (No. 2) in the lineup."
Junior Stephen Shao and freshman Graydon Klassen were named co-recipients of the Most Improved Player Award. After missing a portion of the Fall season, Shao responded with a strong dual match slate. He finished with a 19-8 singles mark, with 15 of those victories coming at four different lineup positions. Klassen posted winning records in both singles and doubles in limited appearances. He concluded his first season 10-6 in singles and 11-4 in doubles (4-0 in dual matches).
"I am really proud of the results Stephen was able to earn this year and I look for him to reach new heights as a senior next year," Rodecap said. "Physically, Graydon was a step behind when he arrived, but he worked really hard to get in shape and the growth in his game will continue."
Sophomore Niko Boulieris claimed the Coaches Attitude Award, which goes to the team member with the best work ethic, both on and off the court. Boulieris was one of two players to see action in a team-best 40 singles matches and posted a 25-13 record in those outings.
"Niko is a quality guy who genuinely cares about the program and his teammates," Rodecap said. "He's a high energy guy, a good listener and is very coachable."
Senior Greg Sirotek, a four-year letterwinner, captured the Academic Award for his work in the classroom. He currently owns a 3.729 grade-point-average and is majoring in finance. During his academic career he has had only one semester below a 3.7.
"Greg possesses all of the necessary qualities needed to be successful," Rodecap said. "He has excelled in the classroom since his arrival on campus and has also been a valuable member of the program."
Each of the honorees was selected based on a vote conducted by each of the players, as well as the coaching staff. MU finished with a 17-7 overall record in 2007-08 and claimed fifth place in the BIG EAST Conference Championship.
Players Mentioned
