UPB Men's Tennis Opens Season Sunday at Behrend

Posted: Feb 12, 2016

The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford men's tennis team returns three players from last year's squad, and head coach Susan Schenfield is excited about her team's focus and work ethic heading into the 2016 campaign.

The Panthers get a touch test right out of the gate as they are set to open the season Sunday afternoon at Penn State Behrend.

"The conference schedule will be extremely tough, highly competitive, and exciting to watch as the season progresses," Schenfield said. "However, as in every other year, the schedule is just a sheet of paper and we can't get wrapped up in who we play."

Jordan Dugan and Kosta Teverovskiy had tremendous success at first doubles last season and Schenfield expects the duo to have an even better season this year.

"Jordan and Kosta are my top two players and together they make an outstanding doubles team," Schenfield said. "They had a lot of success last year winning many matches out of the first doubles position and they have a ton of potential to do great things this season."

Teverovskiy will play first singles and second doubles. Schenfield believes he can compete with anyone in the conference and expects him to play a big role in any success the Panther's enjoy this season.

"Kosta should be able to build off of a great sophomore year as long as he stays aggressive off the baseline," Schenfield said. "He has a good serve and great hands at the net. By continuing to raise his game each match he will have a terrific season."

Jordan Dugan is slated to play second singles and first doubles.

"Jordan is a proven performer on and off the court. He is a hard and competitive worker and knows exactly what he needs to do to be successful," Schenfield said. "He needs to pick and go for his shots. That's when he plays his best tennis."

Schenfield also expects upperclassmen Zach Hadfield, Rilan Galicic, Sawyer Tessmer and Tyler Updike to contribute in some way.

"Zach has a unique style and he really uses that to his advantage to hit consistent winning shots," Schenfield said. "Rilan is quick and patient. Tyler is also getting better with each practice and Sawyer Tessmer also continues to develop his game."

In addition to the returning upperclassmen, Schenfield welcomes six new pieces to the puzzle in freshmen John Parsell, Sam Buck, Matt Dennis, Alex Jadiowiec, Kyle Heffern and Brendan Cross.

"These men bring talent and they also have the drive to compete," Schenfield said. "They will challenge for immediate playing time in the heart of the singles lineup, which has been providing a competitive spirit in practice and a more energized and intense environment leading into the season."

The Panthers open the season on the road at Penn State Behrend and then get two weeks off before hosting D'Youville on Feb. 24.

"We just need to focus on the moment and finish each and every point," Schenfield said. "If we do that, we will have a successful and promising 2016 season."