No one could have predicted the uniqueness of the 2020 women's tennis season. They're just thankful to have one. With a delayed start plus a new coach, the Cyclones are set to commence their year unlike any in the program's history.

Because of COVID-19, the NJCAA limited practices and competitions for fall, even moving several sports to the spring. The Cyclones couldn't meet for a practice in person until Sept. 5. Head Coach Bre Vollan left after two seasons to continue her education while former Cyclone Mike Giordano returned in her place. He was set to coach the men's tennis team last spring, which was canceled because of the pandemic. He last coached the women in 2017.

"I'm excited to be back. I love coaching, so the men's canceled spring season was disappointing. Coming back and having a season with the women will be nice," Giordano said.

The Cyclones are allowed to practice three times a week, must wear masks when not on the court and cannot leave Illinois for any competitions. In 2019, they were runners-up in the NJCAA Region IV tournament, qualifying for nationals, which ultimately was canceled in May.

That tight crew from last season all but disbanded, leaving two returners in Julie Andrist (Oak Lawn) and Trisha Meyers (Stagg) to lead the six newcomers: Olivia Guzik (Stagg), Amanda Hess (Lincoln-Way West), Nada Hinnawi (Richards), Allie Macelli (Oak Lawn), Madelyn Stepuszek (Shepard) and Ana Sutko (Richards).

With such little time actually working together, Giordano will not only make sure his players are safe, but also do what he can to ensure they work steadily.

"It definitely will be difficult with a shortened season, but my main focus will be consistency — get them to be as consistent on the court as possible," he said. "I also plan to do anything I can for the safety of my players and myself as well as other teams."

The Cyclones open their season against McHenry County College on Sept. 10.