By Jonathan Sawyer
Contributing Writer
The men’s tennis team has not had an ideal season so far, but the team believes there is a bright future ahead. Winning two matches this season against Roberts Wesleyan and Mercyhurst has been the only highlight of what looks like a rough season.
A loss to Indiana Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) on March 7 extended the Bonnies’ losing streak to five games. Heading into Atlantic 10 play this weekend, the Bonnies have all the confidence in their team.
Junior Jacob Mishkin said he believes that even though IPFW was a talented team, the Bonnies could have performed better.
Losing their best player, junior Eduardo Irizzary, to an injury made the match more challenging.
Mishkin believes his team isn’t focusing too much on the losing record, but are keeping their minds on the future and how to work on what they have been doing wrong so far through the season.
“Each player on the team has things he needs to work on. Whether it’s volleys, serves, forehands, backhands or footwork, each one of us needs to continue to improve our weaknesses as tennis players,” Mishkin said.
The Bonnies look to take on a tough Duquesne team which is currently 7-4 and coming off a win versus Wright State.
“Starting off the match with immediate energy, positivity, and discipline will help us improve against Duquesne,” Mishkin said.
Although the Bonnies have only posted two wins and are on a five-game losing streak, Coach Michael Bates has confidence in his team entering A-10 play.
“Coach Bates sees the potential this team has and sees how much we care, and [he] has given us confidence that when A-10 play begins against Duquesne, we will be ready,” Mishkin said about the motivation Coach gives them.
Mishkin stated his own personal goal as the remainder of the season approaches.
“[I want] to contribute to the team winning matches in the A-10 Tournament in April in Mason, Ohio. Whether it’s playing or rooting loudly for my teammates while on the sidelines, the success of the team is what matters most,” Mishkin said.
Captain’s junior Eduardo Irizzary and senior Trevor Haskell have also been a part of the supporting cast, keeping the team’s hopes up and continuing to preach about A-10 play and how to be prepared for it.
“We are a tight knit group of guys, and our team chemistry continues to grow; all nine of us want to win,” Mishkin said.
The Bonnies will begin conference play against Duquesne tomorrow at 3 p.m.
sawyerjp15@bonaventure.edu
