JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. – The Carson-Newman men's tennis team (0-1) looks to bounce back on Thursday, facing off against the No. 19 Union College Bulldogs (1-2).
Despite the loss against North Georgia to open the season, head coach Jon Parker believes the high level of competition in the match will serve his team well in the long run, especially for Marnix Van Dalen, who squared off with nationally ranked Joaquin Benoit in singles.
"I think it did wonders for his confidence," Parker said. "He's been playing really well… It was just a matter of one or two points here and there. If he would've gotten those one or two points, the match would've gone his way. Though he was a bit disappointed, after decompressing, he seemed pleased with his performance."
Van Dalen and the Eagles will take on a Union squad that opened the season with Division One opponent Eastern Kentucky for two matches, dropping both but securing points in each match. The Bulldogs bounced back with a 7-0 win against Truett-McConnell on the road.
Union enters the 2024 season following a 13-6 record and an appearance in the AAC championship. Despite Union's challenge, Parker believes his squad has what it takes to earn a big win against a ranked foe.
"There's no lack of IQ in doubles or singles on the men's side," Parker said. "I believe if we can stick to the basics with high first-serve percentage, execute volleys no matter where they're at on the court, keeping it conservative… I believe if we work on those three areas, day in and day out, we will greatly improve."
Union has changed their lineup in the first couple of matches of the season, but whoever the Bulldogs put in the lineup will be a competitive showing from Union. Despite the loss against Division One Eastern Kentucky, the Bulldogs came within five total games of securing the doubles point as well as two singles wins in the No. 5 and 6 spot.
Carson-Newman and No. 19 Union take the court at 10 am Thursday morning.
