The temperature is rising and the clay is in for a spring seasonal wash. Handle grips are being re-taped and the short popping noises from rackets can be heard by residents in the apartment complex. Spring is almost here, and the Cabrini College men’s tennis team is in their primordial practice stages as they gear-up for another exciting season on the court.
Head Coach Rich Aldrete is returning for his third year and is optimistic for a successful season.
“We’re the same basic core since 2004. We’ve got three juniors, three freshman and two seniors. We’ve got three huge matches in the upcoming weeks, against Eastern, Marywood and Arcadia,” Aldrete said.
Senior history major Jack Keller has been playing tennis since he was nine years old. He was insightful on the upcoming season and his overview of his college career. “I’ve learned how to manage a match better, and I have learned the team aspect of tennis. I think we’re a strong enough team to make the PACs,” Keller said.
The team is getting an incredible boost from the freshman class this season. Drew Sutton, a freshman business major comments on his first season and the number one position on the rotation.
Keller said, “I’m excited that there’s a new number one to bump everyone down.”
Sutton commented on his number one position. “It feels good. I didn’t think I’d be number one. I wish to have a winning season, and I hope we win the PACs. I want Jack [Keller] to go out happy,” Sutton said.
Senior marketing major Bill Mariano is also hoping for a big final season. “Since my freshman season, my whole game has improved. Our first match is on Saturday, and I’m hoping to win PACs.” Mariano and the team are ready to serve their opponents into oblivion.
The Cabrini College men’s tennis team recently returned from matches in Hilton Head, S.C., with tough losses against York College from Pennsylvania and Mercyhurst from Hilton Head.
Cabrini opens their season on March 11, at home against DeSales. Following their match with DeSales, Cabrini travels across the road to Eastern, with hopes to serve the Eagles on March 14.
Posted to the web by Brian Coary
