Men’s tennis prepares for Utah Fall Classic

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The BYU men’s tennis team plays hosts this weekend for the Utah Fall Tennis Classic.

The Fall Classic will feature a mix of players from Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Oklahoma, California, Washington and British Columbia, Canada.

“The great thing about this tournament is that it involves college players, pros and ex-pros, and it also involves junior players who are at an open level to participate as well,” BYU coach Brad Pearce said. “You get a good mixture of old guys, college age guys and juniors.”

Pearce said most tournaments college athletes participate in are ITA sanctioned tournaments, meaning only college players are allowed to play. This week’s Utah Fall Classic will show off the talents of every age.[media-credit name=”JJ Despain” align=”alignright” width=”263″][/media-credit]

“(This tournament is) a USTA sanctioned tournament, it’s designated as an open player so anybody that’s considered an open player can play,” Pearce said.

Rather then representing BYU as a whole, the players get the chance to compete as an individual. Senior Spencer Smith continued a five-year trend of wins for BYU last year in the singles section of the competition and feels prepared to continue this positive trend.

“I’m going to try my best to win every single match,” Smith said.

Sophomore Francis Sargeant said the Fall Classic is a good time to give off a good first impression, and to get a feel for new players on the team.

Sargeant said he is looking forward to January when the actual tennis season will begin.

“I’ll be out there to win obviously, but if I don’t do well it’s not the end of the world,” Sargeant said. “It’s more important to do well during the season.”

It may only be a preseason match for these men but they still take themselves seriously. Smith has been chosen as the team captain again this year and feels prepared to take on the responsibility.

“I’m just going to do my best to show good leadership and do what’s best for the team this year and to help coach out,” Smith said.

 

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