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Sophomore Send-off: Men’s tennis

Sophomore Send-off: Men’s tennis

Last year, the men's tennis team competed at nationals. This season, they were unable to reclaim a spot at the Big Dance because of a canceled season due to COVID-19. Now, we say good luck to our sophomores who are moving on to four-year colleges and universities.

Head Coach Mike Giordano was back to lead the men's team this season, but only had pre-season training to work with the players. "Overall, it was disappointing with the season ending so abruptly because this group of guys gelled well and were eager to start. They really wanted to strive for that regional championship this year after taking third the previous year because they felt like they had something to prove. It was a privilege to coach them for the short period, but I know the sophomores, who were leading this team, will be missed next year by all the freshmen and myself."

Giordano had this to say about his players moving on:

Matt Marusarz
"Matt is a very dedicated tennis player. I had the privilege of coaching him through most of his high school career, and he was always looking to improve by asking for pointers and practicing during the offseason. His team comradery was showcased by his enthusiasm and encouragement to his teammates even when he was losing to them because he wanted the best for everyone. His willingness to adapt to the game is what made him a great player and allowed him to be successful in prior years. He brought people together, and it was hard to watch the season come to an end for him as this was the most excited he has ever been to play."

Tim Flynn
"Tim was hands down the team's comedic relief. When Tim found out the season was ending he said, 'I am formally announcing my retirement from the professional aspect of the sport. I was not going to move on and play for another university as I will FOREVER and ALWAYS be a Cyclone.' All jokes aside, Tim was a great player and had the confidence that he could beat anyone at any time, which is what you need in tennis – confidence in yourself. Without confidence in yourself, you will not be successful in this sport, but Tim demonstrated at practice that he could compete with the best. He will be missed on next year's team."

Seth Yaeger
"Despite Seth not having his own racquet for the beginning of the season, he still showed his competitiveness and drive to win. He is the type of player that doesn't show much emotion on the court, but you can tell he has a deep desire to win. Seth brought a high IQ to the game as he could figure out what his opponents' weaknesses were and try to attack them to give him the best chance to win. He talked to his doubles partner after almost every point so they could strategize and figure out what gave them the best opportunity to come out on top at the end of the day. He knew his abilities well, which drove him to improve but also find a way to use his strengths to really break down his opponents."