HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The University of Alabama in Huntsville men's tennis team is set to compete at USTA/ITA Men's South Regional Championships hosted by Florida Southern in Lakeland, Fla., at the Beerman Family Tennis Center.
The regional is one of the toughest in the nation and will give the squad an idea of where it stands.
“Our guys have been working very hard this fall, and this will let them put themselves through a test,” said first-year Head Coach Daniel Finn. “I have really tested these young men this fall, and I know they will be ready to fight.”
Additionally, Chris Kano earned a seed for the tournament which is believed to be the first time that a UAH player as earned that honor.
“As far as Chris getting a seed in singles, we're glad to know that people are noticing and acknowledging the work he is putting and the tennis he is playing,” stated Finn.
The tournament begins on Thursday and runs through the weekend to conclude on Sunday.
UPDATES FROM THURSDAY RESULTS:
Chris Kano battled his way into the round of 16 in singles. He plays tomorrow.
Thales Castro nearly picked up a win. However at 3-1 in the third set he began cramping severely. He finished the match but really had nothing left and lost 6-3.
Raphael Oliveria almost pulled off an upset of Rollins College's Malte Christensen by rallying from 5-2 down in the second set but lost 11-9 in the third set tiebreaker.
All the UAH doubles teams won their opening round match before bowing out in the round of 16.
Chris Kano and Raphael Oliveria almost pulled off an upset of the #2 seeded team in the draw from St Leo University but lost 9-8 on a tiebreaker for the match.
