Michigan State University Athletics
Spartan Tennis Faces Detroit, Valparaiso
2/25/2011 12:00:00 AM | Men's Tennis
Feb. 25, 2011
EAST LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State men's tennis team will host its fourth doubleheader of the season when it welcomes Detroit and Valparaiso Saturday, Feb. 26 at the MSU Indoor Tennis Facility. The Spartans face Detroit at 10 a.m., and Valparaiso at 4 p.m.
Scouting the Spartans
The Spartans earned their tenth victory of the season last week after defeating the Cardinals of Ball State in their first road test this spring by a 6-1 decision. MSU did not move in the ITA weekly rankings, and currently sit at No. 49 with a 10-1 record. The Green and White have enjoyed success from the No. 1 and 2 singles slots, as sophomore Denis Bogatov and junior Ron Hulewicz have combined for a 13-3 record. Freshman Aaron Pfister has also been a model of consistency for the Spartans in the No. 5 singles spot with an unblemished 9-0 record. In doubles play, senior leadership has been key for the Green and White where the tandem of seniors Jason Norville and John Stratton have posted a 4-2 record at the No. 1 spot, while fellow senior Austin Brooks has given the Spartans a combined six wins in the No. 1, 2 and 3 spots.
Detroit Scouting
The Titans of Detroit began their spring season with four consecutive losses, but have recently rebounded for three straight victories all by a score of 6-1. Sophomore Chris Cheung has played a crucial role in the Titans' turnaround, as he went a perfect 6-0 this past weekend to help Detroit to its three road victories. Cheung earned both doubles and singles victories over IUPUI, Chicago State and IPFW, and was named the Horizon League Player of the Week.
Valparasio Scouting
Like Detroit, the Crusaders began the season with four consecutive losses, but have bounced back and won their last two contests, defeating Grace 7-0 and taking down Eastern Illinois last weekend by a score of 5-2. Junior Chris Baum picked up both a singles and doubles victory for Valpo last weekend as he defeated Warren Race in the No. 2 singles spot and paired up with senior Jose Gaspar to earn a 9-8 (7-4) victory in doubles play over Firth and Hilgert.
Last Year vs. Opponents
MSU earned a 6-1 victory over Detroit in last years dual competition, as the Spartans took the doubles point with two victories and earned five of six singles victories. MSU did not face Valparaiso last year in a dual match.
Next Up
The Spartans have their first off week of the season next weekend before traveling to Chicago, Ill., to face DePaul on Saturday, March 12. Match time is set for 2 p.m.
Players Mentioned
