JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. – In a year where things change in the blink of an eye, nothing was truer last Saturday for Carson-Newman men's tennis. The Eagles were prepped to start 2021 action against Union (Ky.) before they were told the Bulldogs were affected by COVID and only had 4 eligible players. So, after 335 days of seeing action, C-N will play for the first time in 2021 against another opponent when they travel to Athens, Tenn. for a matchup with #10 Tennessee Wesleyan.
"Our men are amped to get out and play for the first time this season despite what happened last weekend," head coach Jim Frederick said. "We may have challenges in our roster depth, but the men are ready to get out and start their season. I think this matchup, even playing them twice in one week, will help us to prepare for later in the season."
The Eagles and Tennessee Wesleyan have squared off seven previous times, with the Bulldogs holding the 6-1 series lead. However, C-N was able to take the matchup last season by a 5-2 team score. The Bulldogs were 4-4 overall prior to the season shortage last year and are primed to repeat success throughout this season when they can.
As for the beloved Eagles, they come into 2021 after a 5-5 record last season. To start their 2020 spring schedule, the men's tennis program went on a four-match winning streak from Jan. 31 to Feb. 09 before getting into conference play and having the season end so abruptly.
Head coach Jim Frederick knows the challenges ahead for this year's men's team. The Eagles and Frederick know the unusual nature of a season like this one, so being able to play is not being taken for granted. This matchup and the two matchups awaiting C-N on Saturday (Belmont Abbey and Tennessee Wesleyan) will help the Eagles to get more practice and prepare for South Atlantic Conference play later in the season.
Opening serve from Athens, Tennessee is set for Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. from the campus of Tennessee Wesleyan University.
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