Men’s tennis team travels to Chicago State

Vince Lovergine, Men's Tennis Reporter

 

Tuesday marks the fourth of 11 straight matches on the road for the men’s tennis team, who have not been so lucky to start the spring schedule.

Eastern is 0-3 to start the spring season, with losses coming from Indiana, Ball State and Indiana-Purdue.

In last year’s meeting against Chicago State, Eastern lost 4-3, which snapped a seven-game winning streak that was held since 2001.

This match could come at the right time for senior Jared Woodson. Woodson currently has not won a match in the spring schedule, but did earn a win against Chicago State last season in three sets.

Currently coming into this season, sophomore Freddie O’Brien continues to impress over the two matches. He earned a win against Ball State, and earned another win in singles play against Indiana-Purdue University Indianapolis and earned a win in doubles play.

O’Brien is now 2-1 at the No. 1 position and is 1-2 with partner Grant Reiman in doubles play, earning all three wins the Panthers have earned this season.

While the Panthers try to salvage their 0-3 record on the road this season, the Panthers are 1-18 on the road since the start of last season.

Chicago State also has not fared well on the young season, starting out 1-2. The Cougars won its first match against St. Francis, but lost two to Green Bay and Cardinal Stritch.

Despite losing two in a row, Chicago State is 1-1 at home.

Rohan Wattley has been the Cougars’ best player so far this year, compiling an 8-4 record in singles play, while Christian Gonzalez is second on the team with an 8-6 record.

In doubles play it’s more of the same for Gonzalez, he teams up with Felix Savard, and have a 7-4 record together, while being undefeated at the No. 1 position at 3-0.

Tuesday’s match starts a one at the Homewood-Flossmoor Racquet and Fitness Club.

Vince Lovergine can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected]