Jan. 15, 2003

SANTA CLARA, Calif. - The Santa Clara men's tennis team opens its season this weekend against Division III opponent UC Santa Cruz at the SCU Tennis Center at 10 a.m.

"Everyone is very anxious to get the season started," said first year head coach George Husack. "We've been working hard all fall and since we've been back from winter break the guys are competing extremely well. We have had a solid two weeks of practice and everyone is very focused on what they have to do and we are all excited to get the season underway."

Junior Erich Chen looks to lead the Broncos this season coming off a 9-3 singles record this fall. In doubles action, Chen, along with partner Michael Bruggemann, a senior, posted an 8-2 record.

Sophomore Taylor Bedilion is also looking to make an impact this season as he had a successful fall going 9-2.

"It doesn't matter who is playing one or who is playing six this weekend, everyone is going to have some impact, including guys that may not be starting, but just from the vocal standpoint; the whole team looks at each other to lead," said Husack. "One thing we pride ourselves on is just being very loud and very supportive of each other especially playing here at home, and that goes from the top spot all the way down to the bottom spot, so we are all pretty pumped."

Overall, the Broncos ended the fall season 28-25 in singles play, while posting a 12-9 record in doubles action.