Sept. 13, 2005
Normal, Ill. -
The Illinois State men's tennis team kicks off its season in Muncie, Ind., for the Ball State Invitational this weekend. The Redbirds begin play on Friday and wrap up the tourney on Sunday.
Head coach Greg Kennett has seen many benefits from playing in the Ball State Invitational, typically the Redbirds first tournament of the year.
"There is always good competition, it's not too far from home and its fun" said Kennett. "Our guys get a chance to go out and play hard without too much pressure."
The Redbirds held an intra-squad tournament to decide who would compete at each level. Senior Alban Renard and junior Yohann Nograbat will be representing Illinois State in Flight A this year. Renard hooked up with teammate Alfredo Lagarda to win the B Flight doubles title last year.
Kennett is excited to see Renard play this weekend.
"I have a feeling he is going to have a great year," said Kennett. "He just has a confidence in himself that I haven't seen before."
Senior Djordje Uskokovic, who won the B Flight singles title 2002, will be competing in the B Flight again this year, along with sophomore Luka Marinkovic. Oscar Beich, Alfredo Lagarda and Tim Link will compete in the C Flight. Lagarda, who won the B Flight doubles title with Alban Renard last season, also took second place in the B Flight singles tournament.
Kennett believes this year's squad has a lot to offer.
"My team is getting a little older, a little smarter and definitely more mature." said Kennett. "With their experience, I am certain they are going to do well."
The Illinois State men's tennis team looks to bring home their fifth title in four years from the Ball State Invitational. The veteran Redbird squad will face individuals from Ball State, Bradley, IPFW, IUPUI, Louisville, Marquette, Northern Illinois, Valparaiso, Western Michigan and Xavier this weekend.
