Written by Megan Dern

With this year’s roster being as packed as it has been in years for both men’s and women’s tennis teams, senior Maxi Hepp weighs in on the men’s upcoming men’s season.

“…there’s a lot of talent there. We’re going to regionals but I hope to be number one seated in the region, and go to nationals from there,” Hepp said.

According to Hepp, this season is definitely one to watch.

With there being a total of seven new freshman players on the men’s team, and five new players on the women’s team, its hard to expect anything but new talent. The tennis team has trained all year for these games, and will continue to train throughout the season, as they usually do.

One of the women’s captains, junior Larissa Karl, commented on what to expect from the Lady Panthers this season. “We have a promising team this year with a lot of potential to make it far and further than last year. Especially with the multinational background it makes the team spirit and atmosphere extremely enjoyable,” said Karl.

After hearing about a typical day in the life of a tennis player, many can see why student athletes become so close with each other. “You spend most of the time with your teammates. You’re at practice with them, you’re traveling with them, most of us live together… it’s hard not to become good friends.” Hepp said.

Because the teams are so young, its not unexpected to look to the captains and high ranking, or older players for support. Support from the Drury community and playing in front of a crowd is, as Hepp explained, a great feeling.

The team’s first home match was located at Cooper Tennis Complex against Washburn University. It was welcomed by an exorbitant amount of support from the Drury community on Feb. 3, that ended with wins [Mens: W 6-3, Womens: W 7-2] for both teams followed with another win against McKendree University [Mens/Womens: W 9-0] just two days later.

The teams played an Expedition match against Washington University in St. Louis resulting in a 4-5 loss for the men’s team and a 6-3 win the for women’s team.

Both teams will play Oklahoma Baptist University on Friday Feb. 17, at 8 p.m. at Cooper Tennis Complex following with a match against Lindenwood University on Sunday of the same weekend, Feb. 19, at 10:15 a.m. at Cooper as well.

Join other Drury Fanthers at the men’s and women’s home matches as they continue their season.