Spring Preview: Men's Tennis

2012 Season: 5-12 (1-5 Patriot League); Lost to Army 4-0 in Patriot League Championships

Key Players:

Co-Captain Scott Gelbman ‘13- Singles  

     and Doubles 

Co-Captain Will Mercorella ‘14- Singles 

     and Doubles 

Brandon Goldstein ‘15- Singles

What’s Changed: The team has lost four starting players since last season. Two of the best singles’ players graduated, sophomore James Oliver transferred, and Brian Pinkard ‘16 is studying abroad. Coach Ratchford feels that this young team, which has only one senior and one junior, needs to gain experience as the season goes on. His number one priority for the squad is to be successful in league play. 

What’s the Same: The Men’s team has changed a lot in the past season, leaving only a few similarities. Both captains are back in Gelbman, and Mercorella, who hope to anchor this very young team, and number one singles player Brandon Goldstein is back as well.

Strengths: Despite being a young team, the freshman showed promise in their fall matches. Brian Stefanowicz ‘16 and Gavin Studner ’16 both won close matches against Patriot League opponents. 

Weaknesses: Youth of squad, and short roster

“We definitely have our work cut out for us, but we’re focused on working hard and our guys look forward to the challenge of establishing ourselves in the league.” - Head Coach C. Eric Ratchford

What to Watch For: Challenging matches in conference play.  The team’s toughest opponents this year are Boston College, Delaware, and in conference, Navy. Lehigh is also an important match, not only because of the rivalry but also due to the heartbreak that occurred in a third round tiebreak loss to give Lehigh the win 4-3.  

Patriot League Contenders: The Navy men are picked as the favorites in the Patriot League conference, followed by Army and rival Lehigh.

Key Games Games:

02/23 @ Boston College

03/23 vs. Holy Cross

04/06  vs. Rider

The Last Word: “Our goal is to have a winning season and to make a run in the Patriot League Tournament.  But, most importantly, our goal is to go into every match with the mindset that we are going into a fight.  It always comes down to which team is willing to stay on the court longer and fight harder.“--Scott Gelbman ‘13