Clarksville, Ark.--The U of O men's and women's tennis teams begin the 2005 season under the direction of first-year head coach Luc Godin.
Godin, who was the assistant men’s and women’s coach at Tyler (TX) Junior College, feels both programs have made positive strides during the off season. The men’s team includes seniors Dan Benton, Paul Northcutt and Zach Schiff and sophomores Lee Short and Kevin Edwards. Newcomers to the team are freshmen James Johnston, Shane Newman, Brian Pillar and Geordy Walker. “The guys have an opportunity to qualify for the conference tournament,” said Godin. “They are working hard and I want them to start believing in themselves. We have the tools, but we lack the confidence sometimes. I expect these guys to compete for a position in the post-season tournament.” The women’s team includes sophomores Taylor Emanuelson and Ember Smith and freshmen Olivia Baxter , Olivia Fisher and Marcella Serano. “The attitudes are positive and I’ve seen a lot of improvement from these girls,” said Godin. “It’s a rebuilding year and a learning year for them. It’s a year where we are going to play as many matches as possible to get some experience.” Ozarks begins play on February 12 against John Brown University in Conway.
Topics: Athletics