When it rains, it pours and the USF tennis teams can attest to that. Both teams have started off slowly this season with the Dons posting three wins and six losses and the men's team is currently 1-3. Thc teams have been hampered by the weather as women's Head Coach John Drocco staled, "We've been playing and practicing with rain." As a result, the women's team competed in lour matches in five days while the men's team has rescheduled Santa Clara twice due to rainouts. When both Dons' teams have been able to play, lhe competition has been tough, with many matches being lost by scores of 5-4. This was lhe case for both teams as they fought hard bul lost very close matches to St. Mary's. Their seasons, however, are really only beginning and confidence for upcoming matches was expressed by Marit Parten, sophomore who is playing her first season. She commented that all the players are improving and the team spirit and unity have overcome the lack of motivation that was felt with all lhe rain. In addition to the weather, both USF teams lost top players from last year and are faring quite well with young players comprising the majority of the squads. Freshmen have been starting and they are gaining valuable experience, but the adjustment to lhe collegiate level is challenging. David Hong, a freshman for the men's team has been referred to "as a great asset" by teammates while freshmen Kim Vincent and Katie Beard have been contributing significantly. Following the first winning season of 12-10 last year, the women have a hard act io follow. Kari McCallum, the only senior on thc team, stated, "I'm pleased with the team and that it is a great building year with good preparation for the years lo come (TheFoghorn).
