It's time to break out the rackets again as BYU's 25th ranked women's tennis team opens up the 2005 season Saturday, Jan. 15, at noon against Weber State in the indoor courts.
The women had a very successful fall campaign ending with a stellar second place finish at the Regional Playoffs in Albuquerque, New Mexico. They hope to continue where they left off last season, winning the Mountain West Conference with a thrilling upset victory over New Mexico in the conference championship. The Cougars, who ended the 2003-2004 season ranked 21st nationally and MWC Champs, had an overall team record of 22-6.
But even with last year's success, and even though the team hosts a lot of newcomers to this years squad, don't be surprised if the Cougars do even better this year.
"It depends on if everything comes together, but this could be the best team we have ever had. On paper it is the best team I have ever coached, " Manning said.
Another important factor will be the team's health. Last year, several girls on the team were limited because of injury.
"I think we can improve on last season if we can just stay healthy," Manning said.
Rebecca Pike, this year's lone senior, hopes to avoid such injuries and lead her team to their second consecutive conference championship. Her career at BYU has been marred by injury, suffering a stress fracture last year that kept her from playing in the final stages of the season.
The junior class boasts the best winning percentage on the team. In fact, Olga Boulytcheva and Hadley McFarlane's combined singles record at BYU is an impressive 79-27.
Sophomore sensations Sofia Holden and Lauren Jones return after very successful freshman seasons. Holden and Jones played second and third singles respectively during their first year at BYU. Holden's speed and quick feet led her to a 19-11 singles and 20-13 doubles record while Jones, who coach Manning believes can out hit anybody when she is on, went 21-10 in singles play. Hanni Whittenbecher also returns to the Cougars for her sophomore year but was plagued by an injury that forced her to redshirt last season.
BYU's incoming class brings a lot of maturity and talent. Many of the freshmen played on the international circuit before arriving on campus. One of those, Anastasia Soukova from Russia, has an aggressive style of play on the court that will be a big help to the Cougars this year.
Another experienced freshman is Italian Jennifer Miccoli. She plays, Coach Manning says, like her native Italy makes cars: smooth. Throw in the quick-handed Dolly Chang and walk-on Breanna Williamson and you have yourself a very exciting freshman class.
Everything seems to be in place for another great year. The future seems bright for the Cougars in 2005.