Oct. 14, 2005
KALAMAZOO, Mich. -
The Illinois State men's tennis squad completed day one successfully in the Western Michigan Invitational despite senior Djordje Uskokovic and junior Yohann Nograbat's first doubles loss of the season. The two went 7-0 together thus far during the fall season. The first day of the tournament consisted of doubles play only. The West Hills Athletic Club provided tough competition, hosting Bradley, Toledo and Western Michigan.
The Redbird squad finished day one 2-1 defeating both Bradley and Toledo. Western Michigan gave the `Birds some trouble during the second round, including Uskokovic's and Nograbat's first doubles loss of the season.
Head coach Greg Kennett was not displeased with the team's efforts.
"We played a little up and down today. It's tough to play the same day you travel," said Kennett. "We are not that disappointed about today, Western Michigan is a good team and it was intense.
Uskokovic and Nograbat were not the only doubles team to take their first loss as doubles partners. Senior Alban Renard and sophomore Luka Marinkovic were 3-0 as a team before Friday. After the first day of the tournament the two now post a 3-3 overall doubles record. Kennett felt the two were not in sync.
"They just didn't have it today and it was a little disappointing," said Kennett. "Unfortunately it was a long trip and we only got here an hour and half before our first match.
Kennett wanted to compete in Western Michigan's invitational to help prepare the team for the regional championships that start next week, October 20. The tournament allows Kennett to mix and match his players in the line up to find out who can handle pressure the best.
Tomorrow the `Birds will only compete in singles matches. The line up is not set, but Kennett has some strategies for his players to help train for the regional championship.
"We need to be a little sharper tomorrow and get a good night sleep," said Kennett. "Tomorrow we will get a good warm up and prepare better mentally before our first match."
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