Jan. 24, 2007
NORMAL, Ill. -
As the Illinois State men's tennis team looks to put the pieces of the puzzle together in an attempt to gain another Missouri Valley Conference title, head coach Greg Kennett has brought in a new recruit, Xavier Riart-Ferrer of Lledia, Spain.
Bringing on new student-athletes mid-year is a normal occurrence in men's tennis. Last spring, Daniel Tobar and Nuno Jacinot were added to the lineup. In their first season of competition, Jacinto went 10-7 at the No. 3 singles position. Tobar joined Luka Marinkovic at No. 3 doubles to go undefeated with a 13-0 record.
This season is no different as Xavier, pronounced (Cha-vier), from Lledia, an area in the Northeast of Spain near Catalonia joins the Redbirds mid-year.
Head Coach Greg Kennett knows that the 18-year-old, student-athlete will adjust well to Illinois State and become a vital asset to the tennis program.
"Chavi is really going to be a strong player for us, he is probably going to be in our top-three this semester right off," said Kennett. "He has a lot of weapons, he has quick feet, a strong forehand and a solid mental game. He is going to be able to handle the pressure and adversity on the court."
Kennett knows that his team is prepared for the new addition and that Riart will mesh well with the current team.
"He a very bright student-athlete and wants to be chemistry major," said Kennett. "He is going to fit right in. He is looking forward to his studies and he is going to make a great addition."
