87 items found for your search. If no results were found please broaden your search.
(07/25/02 8:23pm)
IU men's tennis (2-1) could use a victory after a disappointing loss at Louisville. The Hoosiers welcome Ball State (2-1) to the Tennis Center at 3 p.m. Tuesday. Ball St. also lost its last match, falling to No. 6 Illinois. IU holds a remarkable 34-7 all-time record versus in-state rivals. \nThe Hoosiers next four matches will be at home. The home matches are an opportunity to acquire some momentum before conference play begins Feb. 23. \n"It's real important. We shouldn't lose matches at home," senior Rahman Smiley said. "Away matches are tougher to win."\nSmiley and senior Milan Rakvica are leading the Hoosiers this season. Smiley is undefeated in both spring singles and doubles matches. He boasts a 9-5 overall singles record and a 7-1 doubles mark this year. Rakvica is 8-5 in overall singles and 6-1 in doubles.\nIn addition to the seniors, IU has received production from its younger players. Freshman Ryan Recht has an impressive 10-2 overall mark this season, including 3-0 in spring doubles. \n"We'll especially see how the young players will do Tuesday," assistant coach Ondrej Holik said. "Experience is critical, and the only way they'll gain experience is to play. They've done a really good job." \nFreshman Jakub Praibis, a recent addition to the team, is a combined 4-1 in spring singles and doubles. \n"Jakub has been great," Holik said. "He has improved a lot and he works hard. When he can play at No. 2 or No. 3 singles, that's really nice."\nIn addition, freshmen Reid Strand and Jon Magnes have been solid. Strand is undefeated in spring doubles, while Magnes is 7-2 in overall singles this year. \nRecht feels confident and ready for the Cardinals.\n"My serve is the best part of my game right now," Recht said. "I've been pretty good at volleys as well. They are a tough squad this year and the crowd will be cheering." \nSmiley agrees with his teammate. \n"They are always loud and aggressive. I think we have to win the doubles point in order to win the match," Smiley said. \n"We haven't won the doubles point against them in a long time."\nThe IU netters defeated the Cardinals last season in Muncie 6-1. \nBall State is led by seniors Jason Pressel and Andrew Seni. Pressel plays No.1 singles and No. 1 doubles, while Seni plays No. 2 singles for the Cardinals. Ball State's coach, Bill Richards, is in his 30th season at the helm. He is the winningest coach in school and Mid-American Conference history.\nIU's immediate objective is to defeat Ball St., but their ultimate goal is much bigger. \n "Big Ten matches are extremely important," Holik said. "Our goal is to win Big Ten matches and Big Ten Championships, but Ball State is first." \n Recht summed up today's showdown. \n"Coach (Hydinger) says this will make Ball State's season if they can win against IU"
(07/25/02 8:23pm)
Junior Zach Held started his collegiate career at Michigan after playing prep tennis in Indianapolis at North Central High School. After one season as a Wolverine, he followed in the footsteps of his two older brothers and decided to attend IU.\nHeld's two older brothers, David and Andrew, both played four years of tennis at IU, so it was a natural decision for him. David Held played for IU from 1990-1993 and Andrew Held played from 1995-1998. \nHeld, a chemistry major, said his older brothers have influenced him since he was young. He said he always grew up loving IU and would always come to their matches. In addition, Held said he loved the facilities at IU.\nHeld said he believes it was a tremendous opportunity to transfer from Michigan. \n"I knew I would be happy at both schools," he said. \nHeld said he had friends at both schools and he liked both universities. It ultimately came down to proximity to home and the fact that his two brothers played tennis for IU. \nCoach Ken Hydinger, who also coached Held's two older brothers, said Held has contributed a lot. \n"He comes to work everyday, and he's ready to lead the charge," Hydinger said. "Indiana is home." \n Held has a 30-28 career singles record, including a 3-3 spring mark this season. \n Last year, Held compiled a 16-14 singles record playing mostly at No. 5. \n Overall, Held has a better collegiate winning percentage at doubles than singles. He is 27-21 in career doubles versus 30-28 in career singles.\n Held said he feels more comfortable playing doubles because there's less pressure. \n "It's easier when you have a partner backing you up," Held said. \n Senior Milan Rakvica said he enjoys playing with Held. Rakvica and Held have been playing at No. 1 and No. 2 doubles this season. Rakvica said Held's always pumped up, and thinks they play great together. \n"He's a big fighter," Rakvica said. "He has a huge heart." \nThis huge heart has landed Held a leadership role on this team, especially since they have suffered more than their share of injuries this spring. Held has had a calf injury, but it's healing. \nHydinger said he is glad Held is at IU.\n"This is the place for him," Hydinger said.
(07/25/02 8:23pm)
In athletics, some say the way to become the best is to play the best. The IU men's tennis team will get that chance Saturday against in-state perennial power Notre Dame.\nAfter losing their last three matches, and five of the past six, the Hoosiers have the daunting task of facing the No. 7 Fighting Irish in addition to conference foe Iowa. \nIU (6-6, 0-1 Big Ten) faces Notre Dame Saturday at noon and Iowa Sunday at noon at the Varsity Tennis Courts.\nNotre Dame lost to IU 4-3 last season in South Bend. That loss could linger in the minds of the Irish (15-4) and make a difficult task for the Hoosiers an impossible one. Despite that, Coach Ken Hydinger is optimistic about the match with the highly regarded Irish.\n"It's like gambling with someone else's money," Hydinger said. "We've got nothing to lose. It's an opportunity, and we think we can win."\nNotre Dame is traditionally known for having a very strong men's tennis program, and the Hoosiers are 23-36 all-time vs. the Irish. Freshman Ryan Recht, a native of Fort Wayne, admits the upcoming matches will be challenging for IU. \n"They will be fired up," he said. "It will be really tough. It will be a good test for us." \nHydinger is also aware of the Fighting Irish's talent.\n"(Notre Dame is) a good team with some really talented players. They have good student-athletes and don't sacrifice their values for wins," Hydinger said. "I have the utmost respect for their program."\nIU is led by a senior and freshman this spring. Senior Milan Rakvica, who has played at the No. 1 position all season, climbed to No. 6 on IU's career singles win list in his last victory. He's tied with Paul Jacobson with 86 career victories. Hydinger said accomplishing that feat playing three years at the No. 1 position is very hard to do. \nRakvica is a mere two wins from tying the fifth-place career singles wins holder with 88. He is 7-5 in spring singles and 13-9 overall. \nIn addition to Rakvica, freshman Jakub Praibis has played skillfully. He has won nine consecutive matches beginning Jan. 29 against Ball State. He is 11-1 in spring singles and 6-5 in doubles. Praibis arguably has been the most consistent player on the team this spring, mostly playing at the No. 2 position. \n"There's balance in everything he does," Hydinger said. "In his game there's balance. In his emotions there's balance. There hasn't been one part of his game that's been the best during the winning streak."\nIt is unknown whether senior Rahman Smiley will play this weekend. He has been suffering from a chronic back injury and hasn't played in the last three matches. \nWith or without Smiley, IU looks to improve to 1-1 in the Big Ten Sunday. Iowa (8-3, 0-0) will come to Bloomington after tangling with Purdue Saturday in West Lafayette. Last season in the Big Ten Tournament, IU defeated the Hawkeyes 4-3. During the regular season it was the same result with the Hoosiers victorious in Iowa City, Iowa. \n"In the Big Ten, they are all important. Big Ten is Big Ten. We cannot overlook anybody in the Big Ten," said Hydinger, whose Hoosiers hold a 45-13 all-time mark against Iowa. "It's a 60-yard dash and a race to the finish line"
(07/25/02 8:23pm)
A pair of outdoor matches gave the IU men's tennis team the chance to put its first Big Ten match of the season into the win column.\nBut after the weekend, the win column still reads "0." \nThe Hoosiers lost to Wisconsin 5-2 Saturday at the IU Varsity Tennis Courts. The Hoosiers started out on the right foot by claiming the doubles point for the first time in the past eight matches. Seniors Milan Rakvica and Ari Widlansky paired to win 8-6 at the No. 2 position. Senior Rahman Smiley and freshman Reid Strand won by the same score at the No. 3 spot. \n"Winning is contagious, and we have not been winning," coach Ken Hydinger said. "We expect our lineup to get better and better as the season goes on, but the season does have a time limit. Sometimes it's not pretty. It's like when you're swimming and you're struggling just to stay afloat." \nThe lone singles point over the Badgers (8-6, 2-3 Big Ten) came from Widlansky. He cruised in straight sets 6-2, 6-2 against Wisconsin's Justin Baker.\n"I tried to stay aggressive and move the ball around," Widlansky said. "I concentrated on moving the ball around from the baseline. The team just didn't get some breaks today." \nHydinger said he also was disappointed in the IU players who were not playing. He said they showed little emotion and hardly any desire to win. \nAfter the match, Hydinger told his players that if they aren't competing, they should be hanging on the fence cheering for their teammates, especially the players who have injuries. \nOne of those players playing through injuries was Smiley. He competed for the first time since Feb. 23 after suffering a chronic back injury. He won the first set 6-1, then dropped the next two sets 7-6, 6-2 to David Hippee at the No. 3 position. Smiley was plagued with cramps, too, as he was affected by a cold and the cool weather outdoors. \nSmiley wasn't the only injured Hoosier. Freshman Jakub Praibis had an injured groin and hip. \n"This loss was frustrating, but it shows that we're right there," Widlansky said. "If we keep fighting hard, eventually we will get wins."\nThe Hoosiers searched for redemption against No. 20 Minnesota on Sunday. That redemption would not come, as IU lost 6-1 to the Golden Gophers. \nThe Hoosiers started strong in doubles, keeping each match close, but IU couldn't capitalize on the decisive moments. Junior Zach Held and freshman Ryan Recht made a furious comeback after being down 6-1. \nAfter a tough effort, the Hoosiers (6-12, 0-6) ultimately won the point and forced a tiebreaker, which they won 7-5. The final score was 9-8, and Held and Recht improved to 2-4 this spring and received their first conference victory as a tandem. \n"I'm proud of No. 1 doubles. They started to use an Australian formation, and it worked for them," Hydinger said. "Ryan feels a lot of pressure sometimes. He has to realize that he has Zach to back him up and he needs to play more relaxed. Zach was ripping some nice returns."\nRecht said Held and himself just changed their serves and patterns around and got their opponents off their groove. \nFor the second time in as many days, the only singles point came from Widlansky. He defeated Reven Stephens 6-3, 6-4 at the No. 6 position.\nRakvica and Recht challenged their opponents to three sets before losing. Rakvica lost the second set 6-0 after winning the first 6-4. He fought hard in the third before losing 6-4. \nRecht started off well, winning his first set 6-4. Then he dropped the second and third sets 6-0, 6-3 to Avery Ticer. \n"I got my confidence going with a fast start," Recht said. "In juniors my opponent was ranked very high, so it felt really good to come out strong."\nSmiley dropped his match against Minnesota (11-4, 4-1) in straight sets. He dropped his career Big Ten singles record to 21-14 and this year's mark to 10-10.\nPraibis sat out again with an injured groin and hip.\nWidlansky said he's learned through experience and remains confident in the team.\n"We have to keep our heads up. Coach told us to stick with it," Widlansky said. "He said it will come if we continue to scrap"
(04/25/02 4:15am)
One can tell by the respect Ken Hydinger commands that he is not an average coach. Coaches must gain their players' respect before the players will listen and truly believe in their coach's philosophy. Hydinger has done that.\nAfter practice, he chats with a senior about their play. He tells him he will be fine if he just plays to his strengths. Hydinger has been offering this assurance and much more for 18 years at IU. He has set high standards and has flourished as coach of the IU men's tennis team. \nHydinger has received a plethora of accolades, but shrugs them off. When credit comes his way he quickly dishes it off like he's playing a game of hot potato. He holds an all-time school best 271-189-1 record and has 117 Big Ten victories.\nHydinger, a graduate of Pepperdine, is very humble and he shows it everyday. He shows it in the way he speaks to his \nplayers and the way he carries himself off-court with the media. \n"He has been real positive and hasn\'t shown any frustration or negativity this season," senior Rahman Smiley said. "He's just as excited, even if we lose after a match. I couldn't have imagined the coach to be anybody but him. He has definitely created a positive team attitude."\nTo begin his achievements, in 1992 he was named Big Ten coach of the year. That year the Hoosiers finished the regular season in 2nd place with an 11-2 conference record and were 16-8 overall. \nBefore coming to IU, Hydinger coached at Mississippi State and at Southwest Missouri State. He owned a 43-42 record in his four years at Mississippi State and held a 23-3 mark at Southwest Missouri State in 1978. \nMost importantly, this year Hydinger has helped to turn a disappointing season into a challenging endeavor. He has done so by always remaining positive and by being a remarkable motivator. The Hoosiers (7-15, 1-9) have won only one Big Ten match this season, that coming last weekend against Michigan State. Despite the frustrating season, Hydinger has found a way to motivate his players.\n"Teaching you how to play tennis is like a miniature version of life," Hydinger said. "You have to learn responsibility and get in the habit of doing things right." \nSmiley, who has 68 career singles victories, credits Hydinger with his success in college. \n"He has been a big help with my tennis," Smiley said. "He has taught me the importance of conditioning and he has helped me with my volleys."\nSmiley has been injured for the majority of the season, but he said he always relies on Hydinger for advice. Smiley said he always see Hydinger assisting other players, helping whenever help is needed.\nAssistant coach Ondrej Holik, who is a native of the Czech Republic, is in his fourth year with Hydinger. Much like Smiley, he doesn't know where he would be without Hydinger.\n"(Hydinger) knows a lot about tennis, no question. He watches videotapes and studies players," Holik said. "I have learned things from him. By working with him, I'm learning how to better motivate players."\nHolik said Hydinger's rapport with him and other people is unmatched. \n"He knows what to say and when to say it," Holik said. "He talks to the guys a lot. Sometimes it's hard to keep a positive mind, but he does it."\n Holik, who is IU's primary recruiter, said he and Hydinger trust one another. \n Holik said it's more than a boss relationship. He said they are friends and Holik feels comfortable with him.\n "IU is a wonderful school," Hydinger said. "It's what you make of the opportunity. They have terrific facilities and the academic help is just as good. You don't have to give up anything to be at IU."\n In addition to his other accomplishments, Hydinger has been responsible for coaching a number of fine Hoosier players. He coached Sven Gunnar and his brother Gunnar, who were both three-time All-Big Ten selections. Furthermore, under his tutelage, Erik Barrett was named the 1995 Big Ten Sportsman of the Year. No other coach in the history of IU Tennis has ever had a player earn that prestigious award.\n Hydinger said Barrett nabbed the accomplishment because he had talent when he was younger. Hydinger credited Barrett's parents with his good sportsmanlike conduct. That typifies Hydinger's humble demeanor. \n"It would be awesome to win a Big Ten Championship with such a great person," Holik said. "It would mean so much more. It wouldn\'t get any better than that"
(04/25/02 4:13am)
If the IU men's tennis team can prolong its recent success this weekend, the frustration of a long season will dissipate. But not all of the haunting memories will be erased. At the same time, it is a new season; a chance to make the wrongs right. \nIn the first round of the Big Ten Championships at 2 p.m. today, the Hoosiers battle No. 37 Michigan as they attempt to abandon their poor play. All tournament matches are going to be played in Columbus, Ohio at the Stickney Tennis Center. IU (7-15, 1-9) is the No. 11 seed, while the Wolverines (14-7, 5-5) are the No. 6 seed. Last season, IU was the No. 8 seed. \n"This is one of the best college tournaments in the country," coach Ken Hydinger said. "It's a chance, an opportunity for us. Anything is a plus for us."\nLast Saturday, IU hosted Michigan, and the Wolverines spoiled the invitation by winning 5-2. But the match was closer than the score indicates. The Hoosiers were without their usual No. 2 player in senior Rahman Smiley. He sat out with a severely sprained ankle. In addition, Smiley missed six weeks earlier in the season because of a chronic back problem. Besides being without Smiley, two of IU's singles losses came in three sets.\nIllinois (20-4, 10-0), who plays Friday at 10 a.m., is the No. 1 seed in the Tournament and they received a bye for the first round. Host Ohio State (20-3, 9-1) is the No. 2 seed and they play the winner of the Wisconsin and Iowa match at 10 a.m. Friday. \nAfter an emotional victory last weekend, the Hoosiers are optimistic for a chance at redemption. IU beat Michigan State 4-3 last Sunday. Junior Zach Held, a former Michigan player, lost to his former team last Saturday, 6-2, 7-6. \n "This is the most upbeat we've been in a while, probably since the beginning of the season," Held said. "I wouldn't want to be a Michigan player. We are a dangerous, dangerous team right now. I wouldn\'t want to play us."\n The Wolverines split matches with IU and Purdue to finish the regular season. Michigan features players from Sweden, Germany, Canada and the Cook Islands. \n"Michigan is a very good team. We would be happy to play anybody," Hydinger said. "It doesn't really matter who we play."\nThe Hoosiers and Wolverines both have three seniors on their respective squads. Overall, IU is younger with eight freshmen, while Michigan has four. The Wolverines' Henry Beam, a senior, is their normal No.1 singles player. He lost to Rakvica last Saturday in straight sets. Michigan's usual No. 1 doubles team is duo Chris Shaya and Brett Baudinet. \nSmiley is questionable because of his ankle injury. He said he has gotten pretty good at helping the team when he is not in the lineup, and he acts like another coach and is eager to help at the Big Ten Championships. \n"It's going to be a lot different atmosphere," he said. "Coaches and players approach it differently. It's just a complete different feeling."\nLast season, IU defeated Iowa 4-3 in the first round of the Tournament in Madison, Wis. They followed with a loss to Illinois, 4-2. \nSince 1990, IU has won two tournament matches in the same year five times, most recently in 1995 at home when they defeated Ohio State and Penn State.\nWidlansky has consistently improved his game this year. He has won four of his past six singles matches.\nHeld said victories at No. 1 and No. 2 singles are almost guaranteed and not that many teams can claim that. Plus, he said freshmen Ryan Recht has nothing to lose at the No. 5 position. \nHydinger said Rakvica and Smiley know you have to be prepared and focused. He said they know what it takes and that Widlansky knows that the fight starts now, because he has been there. \nIU owns a 5-4 record on neutral courts against Michigan. The Hoosiers and Wolverines have met one other time in the Big Ten Tournament with the Hoosiers winning 5-4 in 1990. \nThe winner will play Minnesota on Friday at 10 am.\n"It's like we've had a bear on our back," Hydinger said. "It would feel great to win a Big Ten Championship"
(04/22/02 6:58am)
With the last two regular season matches looming, the IU men's tennis team did not want to become the first IU men's tennis team to go winless in Big Ten action. Only one time since 1963 has the team finished with only one conference victory, that coming in 1982. Last year, IU won five conference matches. \nAll the hard work finally paid off for the Hoosiers Sunday. IU won their first Big Ten match of the season 4-3 against Michigan State at the Indiana Tennis Center.\n"This match was a lot better because of the final result," coach Ken Hydinger said. "Give the guys credit, they could have hung their heads after yesterday, but they didn't. They came out with real determination today."\nThe seniors were instrumental in the last home match of their careers and the deciding match was played by a senior. Ari Widlansky had a difficult and long match against the Spartans' Mike Hodge. Widlansky, who did not see much playing time until this season, dropped the first set 7-6 in a tiebreaker, but recovered to win the next two 6-4, 6-2 at the No. 6 position. \n"Ari's passing shots were the best they've ever been," Hydinger said. "He served consistently, too. What a great way for Ari to finish his final match at home, in front of his friends and family."\nWidlansky said it's absolutely great to get a win, and the team kept fighting, refusing to give up.\n"It's great to have teammates like this," Widlansky said. "It doesn't get any better than this." \nHe improved to 12-11 this year and has won two of his past three matches. \nSenior Milan Rakvica closed his regular season career in fine fashion and etched his name in the IU (7-15, 1-9) record books. He claimed sole possession of fifth place on IU's all-time singles wins list. Rakvica, who captured his 90th career victory, moved past David Collins on the all-time wins list. \n"Milan is one of the best players we ever have had at IU," Hydinger said. "I am proud of him. It was very nice to see him win all four of his matches to close at home. We are going to miss him dearly next year."\nThis year, Rakvica is 17-14 in singles and he said it was special to win in front of the biggest home crowd of the season.\n"It's a great feeling and so great for the seniors," Rakvica said. "No one fights harder than this team. It's just a beautiful feeling."\nThe third senior, Rahman Smiley, did not play last weekend because of an ankle injury. He said he was very disappointed, but was happy for the team.\nAlso victorious against the Spartans (14-11, 2-8) were freshmen Jakub Praibis and junior Zach Held. Praibis was victorious 6-3, 6-1 and Held won 4-6, 6-1, 6-4. It was Held's first singles victory since March 24, in a match against Iowa. Held's record is 11-20 this year, while Praibis is 15-4 and 5-2 in conference action. \nBefore its exciting match on Sunday, IU lost 5-2 to Michigan on Saturday. IU dropped the doubles point to begin the match, which was played outside. \n"Long season, hard match, good team, and the guys came out and played hard," Hydinger said. "A lot of people are going to look and see the score, but athletics is a lot about a guy's heart. It's not always about the score." \nRakvica won a 6-1, 7-6 decision over the Wolverines' Henry Beam. \nHydinger said he knew Rakvica was down a break in the middle of the second set, but Hydinger said he came back and worked through it. \n"When Milan has that look in his eye," Hydinger said, "he's the best in the Big Ten." \nRakvica also paired with fellow senior Ari Widlansky to win 8-5 in doubles. They defeated Michigan's (14-7, 5-5) Chris Shaya and Brett Baudinet.\n"We tried to jump on them and keep the energy level real high," Rakvica said. "We tried to press them and we were pretty successful. It was a nice win for us and it was a good feeling to win with Ari."\nPraibis, who suffered a hip injury which caused him to miss two matches, picked up right where he left off before the injury. He defeated Ben Cox 6-2, 6-3 and has filled in several times at the No. 2 position. Praibis has won seven of his past ten singles matches, yet has only won one of his past five doubles matches.
(04/18/02 6:14am)
You won't see a record by his name, or even proof of him having played. He works about three and a half hours a day, six days a week and cleans out the grubby water jugs, shags tennis balls and destroys the strings on the rackets, then, restrings them. These are just a few of the duties performed by junior Brian Van Handle, team manager of the IU men's tennis team. He seldom gets noticed, but the team would be at a loss without him.\nMinus Van Handle, the players would have to perform his job. That would detract from their athletic and academic responsibilities and eventually the success of the team both on and off the court. \nVan Handle, a business major, is in his third year as manager. He has played tennis since middle school and enjoys the sport immensely.\n"I really wanted to play college tennis and I could have played at a smaller school, yet I wanted to go to IU," Van Handle said. "This way, I can still be a part of tennis."\nA tremendous amount of time -- solid time -- is devoted by Van Handle. He's there before and after practice and is present at every home match where he prepares the court for competition. He fills and refills the players' water jugs, and for inside matches, he posts the individual scores and the team results of matches. Outdoors, if there's dirt or leaves on the court, he has to clean it up. In addition, he serves as the announcer at all home contests.\n"He's out there more than the players are, except in the weight room," Coach Ken Hydinger said. "He calls up early asking what we need on the court. His anticipation skills are extremely good, and his work ethic is even better."\nSenior Milan Rakvica said Van Handle acts like one of the coaches on the court. Rakvica said he hits balls to the players in practice just like the other coaches, and he's constantly picking up balls. \nHydinger said he loves his manger's attitude and perspective on his job. \n"I'm sure he's had bad days," Hydinger said. "But I've never seen Brian in a bad mood." \nAmong his other work, Van Handle, a native of Greenwood, Ind., helps with practice when the Hoosiers (6-14, 0-8) are on the road, because not all the players travel. Only the players who are slated to play travel with the team.\nThe players recognize his dedication and know they would be at a disadvantage without him. Rakvica said he respects Van Handle and said all the guys notice his service. \n"He's a big part of the team," Rakvica said. "He takes care of us and our things. We would really like to thank him."\nThe players treat Van Handle as if he was just another player on the team, a player who does more than his fair share of work. He said he gets along well with the players and remains close friends with some of them, adding that there are no differences between himself and any Hoosier player. He receives a partial scholarship, but said that's not his motivation. \n "If I wasn't doing athletics, I would have a part-time job, and I wouldn't be having as much fun," he said. "I love to have fun and be a part of athletics at the same time."\n After next year, when Van Handle is scheduled to graduate, the team will have to find a replacement. A job that will not be easy.\n"Hopefully, we will have somebody with him next year, that way he can show him how to do the job," Hydinger said. "Over the years, we have been blessed to have incredible managers at IU"
(04/12/02 5:42am)
The IU men's tennis team gets healthier and healthier every day. In addition, the eight freshmen on the squad receive more experience through matches and practices, as the seniors look to finish their careers on a positive note. \nThe Hoosiers have four regular season matches remaining this season, and two of them are this weekend. \nThe Hoosiers travel to Columbus, Ohio, and State College, Penn., this weekend to play No. 14 Ohio State and Penn State, respectively. They play the Buckeyes on Saturday at noon at the Stickney Tennis Center and the Nittany Lions on Sunday at noon at the Sarni Tennis Center. \n"We have respect for both teams," coach Ken Hydinger said. "(Penn State) is a match we would like to win. Penn State doesn't have near the results Ohio State has. Ohio State will be a tough match-up. Hopefully everybody with injuries will be back for us." \nIU (6-12, 0-6 Big Ten) has struggled as of late, but half of its losses were against top 40 opponents, including three losses against top 10 teams. \nThe Buckeyes (17-6, 6-0), who have no seniors, have won 14 consecutive matches and currently sit in a tie for the top spot in the Big Ten with Illinois. The win streak for Ohio State is two shy of the all-time school record of 16. Ohio State's last loss was Feb. 3 against Georgia. \nIU holds a 16-8 all-time edge in Columbus, but Hydinger said history means nothing. This is even more true with the rash of injuries that have plagued his team. \nSenior Rahman Smiley, who missed six weeks with a persistent back injury, said Ohio State is a big match, but every Big Ten match is big.\nLast year, the Buckeyes advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament before losing 4-1 to Tennessee, and they finished the season 25-4. The Buckeyes, under third-year coach Ty Tucker, are searching for even better results this year. \n"They are under a new coach, and their whole approach to tennis is aggressive," Hydinger said. "They are getting big crowds over there, so it so should be interesting."\nMeanwhile, last weekend the Nittany Lions (8-10, 1-5) picked up their first conference victory of the spring against Michigan State. \nHydinger said he expects a challenge from them. The Hoosiers are 10-4 all-time against the Nittany Lions and they defeated them 4-3 last year.\nThe Hoosiers' No. 1 netter is senior Milan Rakvica. Rakvica remains tied for fifth place on IU's career singles wins list with 88. He owns a 15-12 record this year and is 9-8 this spring, including 1-4 in Big Ten singles matches. \nSenior Ari Widlansky has been playing well also. He struggled to crack the singles lineup earlier this season but has been effective as of late. He has won two consecutive singles matches and has split his last four doubles contests. He is 7-4 in spring singles and 3-2 in conference action.\n"I'm keeping the ball deep," Widlansky said. "I'm not making many unforced errors, and I'm concentrating well on the court." \nHydinger is proud of Widlansky's dedication to the game.\n"He starts hungry, and he wants to be in the lineup," Hydinger said. "He's really learned how to play well. He's hungry, and he uses that to motivate himself."\nThe team was glad to have Smiley back in the lineup last weekend. Smiley has 68 career singles victories and owns 21 career conference wins. Prior to his injury, Smiley was the No. 2 singles player in the six-player lineup. \n"I'm thinking out there on the court," Smiley said. "Before, I wasn't thinking as much as I am now." \nFreshman Jakub Praibis has filled in for Smiley, but Praibis has been plagued by a groin injury as well. Praibis missed the last two matches, and his presence has been sorely missed. He brings 11 singles victories to the court and only 4 defeats. \nFreshmen Ryan Recht and Reid Strand have contributed in doubles. Junior Zach Held has seen time at the No. 2 position, too. \nWidlansky said it would mean a great deal to finish the regular season strong. He said it would assist the team and supply confidence for the conference tournament. \nNot only is the entire team optimistic, Hydinger is as well.\n"The opportunity…the opportunity is to have some satisfaction out of this season," Hydinger said. "We can do that if we close the season strong"
(04/11/02 4:21am)
Eventually, perseverance will pay off. \nJust because he does not always receive playing time, freshman Reid Strand does not feel sorry for himself. Instead, he keeps his head high and helps the IU men's tennis team (6-12, 0-6) in any way he can. \nBut Strand's role is slightly different than most players. Some players receive lots of playing time, some receive minimal time and some receive none at all. Strand receives partial playing time in his usual doubles position. \nStrand, who has only participated in two singles matches this spring, mainly plays doubles, but that doesn't deter him from being an integral part of the team. He owns a 6-13 record in doubles this year, including a 6-10 mark this spring. \n"He moves around the net," coach Ken Hydinger said. "He is able to volley well, that is his biggest ability. He has a solid serve and can move in on the net after it."\nLately, Strand has been playing doubles with senior Rahman Smiley. They were victorious 8-6 last weekend against Wisconsin at the No. 3 position, while dropping their match against No. 20 Minnesota. \nStrand has learned a lot from playing with Smiley and Hydinger said Strand respects Smiley a great deal and listens to him on the court. He said it has been an up and down year between them. \nFor instance in one match, the pair could play well together and the next they won't have have the same chemistry. But despite the hot and cold playing styles, Strand values his minimal role on the team, because he knows the doubles point could make the difference between victory and defeat.\n"It (doubles point) is really important. It allows us to start on the right foot," Strand said. "In the 4-3 matches, the doubles point is really big."\nIU has lost two one-point matches this spring. In both of those, they not only failed to win the doubles point in each of them, they failed to win one doubles match out of six. The Hoosiers have been playing better in doubles as of late and Strand is one reason why. While playing with Smiley, he has paired with freshmen Jakub Praibis for a majority of the season. The duo has a record of 5-6 this year. \nStrand, who has played in seven singles matches this year and has gone 3-4, hails from Corpus Christi, Texas. He attended Flour Bluff High School and said his decision to attend IU was based on the fact that he enjoys change and new experiences. \n"I wanted to go to a school where I could receive a quality education and IU's business school is outstanding," Strand said. "I wanted to play really competitive tennis at a school with a great sports tradition. IU's sports tradition speaks for itself."\nStrand said he considered attending Princeton, Texas, and Southern Methodist, but ultimately chose to be a Hoosier.\nDespite not being a regular competitor on the court, Strand receives high praise from his other teammates. \n"Reid plays doubles the right way," Ari Widlansky said. "He has great hands. He knows what's happening on the court and plays well with a partner. He just looks comfortable on the court. He just wants to win." \nStrand is familiar with playing successful tennis as he practiced it in prep. He won the Texas High School State Championship in his senior year last year. Strand said winning the title was very special and it was always a dream of his to win a championship.\nBut Hydinger understands the difference in college and high school play.\n"It's nice, but it's a whole new ball game in college," Hydinger said. "Winning in high school really doesn't mean that much here." \nOne day, Strand expects to help the team in singles. With all the injuries the team has been experiencing this season that day could possibly come this year, although it would take a large amount of luck. \n"No one expects anything out of us," Strand said. "We can do well at the Big Ten Championships and hopefully I can help."\nMaybe Strand will be slotted in singles, if not; he will certainly be in the doubles line-up.
(04/05/02 4:28am)
The IU men's tennis team appeared to be on the right track at the beginning of the spring season. After winning five of their first seven matches, the Hoosiers were confident, with hopes to contend for the Big Ten regular season championship and a berth in the NCAA Tournament. \nUnfortunately, the Hoosiers (6-10, 0-4 Big Ten) have lost five of their past seven matches and sit winless after four conference matches. Their struggles can be traced to injuries and the fact that they play in one of the most competitive conferences in the country.\nTwo of those Big Ten opponents come to Bloomington this weekend. The Hoosiers tussle with Wisconsin Saturday and No. 20 Minnesota Sunday, both starting at noon. \nIU has been affected by a series of injuries. Senior Rahman Smiley, who has 68 career singles wins, went down with a recurring back injury six weeks ago. Junior Zach Held inured calf, and freshman Ryan Recht had a sore groin. Freshman Jakub Praibis suffered an injury and was out for the last match against Illinois. Coach Ken Hydinger said Praibis will be out this weekend but is progressing. Praibis won nine consecutive singles matches earlier this year.\n"We need to get healthy," Hydinger said. "The road hasn't been the struggle; our health has struggled. It would be a big-time pleasure to have the whole team healthy, but I don't know when that is going to be." \nSenior Milan Rakvica has lead the team through this difficult stretch. He is tied for fifth place on the IU career singles wins list with 88 and holds a 9-6 record this spring. Praibis has also played well, compiling an 11-4 record. Filling in for Praibis will probably be Held, who seems like a new player after taking a leave of absence earlier this season, missing two matches. He has been solid in doubles as well, pairing with Recht. \nThe Badgers (7-5, 1-3) lost to IU last year and feature an experienced team. Three seniors play in their usual starting singles lineup. Wisconsin coach Pat Klingelhoets is in his 19th season in Madison and holds a career record of 239-218.\n"It's a Big Ten match, and we need a Big Ten win," Hydinger said. "We are playing at home, and I know we have always had tough matches with Wisconsin." \nThe Hoosiers tangle with Minnesota (9-4, 3-1) Sunday. The Golden Gophers have a younger team than Wisconsin, and they have quite the global roster. They have players from six different countries, including Croatia, India, Russia, Switzerland and Columbia. Leading the way for the Golden Gophers are Harsh Mankad, who is 19-3, and Aleksey Zharinov, who is 22-10. Mankad is 7-2 at the No. 1 position. Zharinov is 6-1 at the No. 3 position. Minnesota, coached by David Geatz, has won the last two matches against the Hoosiers.\nSenior Ari Widlansky has been turning it on as of late for IU. He won at No. 6 singles against Purdue and paired with Rakvica to win in doubles. He is 5-4 this spring. \n"The full team and squad must stay positive with the injuries. We need to really concentrate," Widlansky said. "I need to close out points better and move closer to the net." \nThe Hoosiers have not won a road contest this spring, while they won six last year.\n"It's hard playing on the road. Lots of people are always cheering against you," freshman Efriam Kandinov said. "It's like everybody's against you. It's much different at home"
(03/29/02 4:29am)
The IU men's tennis team's chance of ending a five-game losing skid were foiled by Purdue yesterday. The Hoosiers lost 6-1 in West Lafayette. \nOne IU player did all he could to ensure the Hoosiers would not lose to the No. 48 Boilermakers. That player, senior Ari Widlansky, beat Purdue's Sounak Chatterjee at the No. 6 singles position 6-4, 7-5. He improved to 8-8 this season, including a 1-1 mark in Big Ten contests. \nIn the doubles matches, Widlansky paired with fellow senior Milan Rakvica to win 8-5 at the No. 2 spot. The Hoosiers (6-9, 0-3 Big Ten) surrendered the doubles point, losing the other two doubles matches 8-3 and 8-4. \nIn singles Rakvica failed to climb the career singles wins list. He lost 6-4, 6-1 to Scott Mayer.\nAfter winning the first set, freshman Jakub Praibis was forced to retire because of a hip injury. He dropped to 11-4 this spring. Senior Rahman Smiley sat out again with an unrelenting back injury. \nWith the victory, the Boilermakers (7-7, 2-1) captured one full Titan Series point. IU leads the series 7-5.\nBut yet another explosive team is on the docket for the Hoosiers. The Hoosiers tangle with No. 2 Illinois Sunday at noon. The match will take place in Champaign, Ill., at the Atkins Tennis Center.\nThe Hoosiers have not defeated Illinois since 1997, when they were victorious 4-3. \nThe Fighting Illini (12-4, 2-0) were ranked No. 1 earlier this spring. They have split two matches with Notre Dame this season, while IU lost at home to the Fighting Irish 6-1. \n"We have to play loose against Illinois. Just roll the dice," coach Ken Hydinger said. "We must stay relaxed and calm."\nIU holds a 16-17 record at Illinois, but the Hoosiers are viewing this match as a tremendous opportunity.\n"This is why you play," Smiley said. "There's motivation to win a match, whether we lost to them last time or not. Everybody comes ready to play in the Big Ten." \nThe Hoosiers feature a duo of players who have been solid this spring.\nRakvica sits alone in sixth place on IU's career singles wins list with 87, one win shy of tying David Russell for fifth place. He owns 14 wins this year. Plus, he has 65 career double victories, good for seventh place on the doubles list. \n"It's extra nice. I'll count at the end of the season," he said. "At this point I want to play the best for the team."\nAnother Hoosier making his way up the IU career wins list is freshman Jakub Praibis. He has won 11 singles matches this spring, mostly playing at the No. 2 position. Hydinger said that is quite a feat for only a freshman. \nBut Praibis will need to be on the top of his game this weekend. Despite the enormous underdog role the Hoosiers will be playing Sunday, they are approaching it with a no-fear attitude. \n"They are ranked high. We have nothing to lose," Rakvica said. "It's why you play, to have the chance to beat the best"
(03/28/02 6:03am)
Rivalry. That word in sports conjure up thoughts about the Bears-Packers, Celtics-Lakers or North Carolina-Duke matchups. It also reminds people of another fiery rivalry, IU-Purdue; universities within a stone's throw of one another. \nThe IU men's tennis team (6-8, 0-2) continues this rivalry with Purdue today at 1 p.m. at the Lafayette Sports Center. \nThe Hoosiers lost two matches this past weekend, including one to Iowa 5-2, while the Boilermakers (6-7, 1-1) defeated the Hawkeyes and Indiana State. Purdue won 4-3 against Iowa.\n"(Purdue) is a team that I respect," Coach Ken Hydinger said. "(Purdue coach) Tim Madden has done things the right way, and we have had some good, hard, really clean matches. But this is Purdue. It's Purdue. You don't have to say anything more," said Hydinger, who has a 116-90 career record in Big Ten play.\nIU has not defeated its archrival since 1995. They have lost the last six matches to Purdue, including the last three in West Lafayette. Last season, the Boilermakers beat the Hoosiers 5-2 in Bloomington. \nThe winner of this contest receives one point in the Titan Series between the two schools. IU leads the series 7-4 and there are 18 points total in the series. The Series is meant to enhance the rivalry between the archrivals. \nPlayers said they are eager to face off against adversary Purdue.\n"There's not extra motivation because we lost to them last year," senior Rahman Smiley said. "There's more motivation because it has been six or seven years since we've last beaten them. Purdue is a rival. That's all the motivation we need." \nSmiley figures to sit out because of a persistent back injury. He has not played in competition since Feb. 23 against Evansville. He said his back is getting better, and he has been hitting the ball better, but still has not been able to do some things.\nLeading the Hoosiers has been senior Milan Rakvica. He stands alone in sixth place on IU's career singles wins list with 87, one win shy of tying David Russell for fifth place.\nIn order for Rakvica to get into third place on the list, he would have to overtake Eion Collins, of whom Hydinger spoke very highly.\n"Collins was the hardest worker for us. He went on to play in two Olympics for Ireland, so for Milan it's great company to be in," Hydinger said. "It's really special."\nRakvica's career singles record is 87-49. This year, he is 14-9 in singles and 8-5 in the spring.\nWith Rakvica, fellow Czech, freshman Jakub Praibis, has been providing leadership on the court. Even though he has been bothered by a hip injury, he continues to be aggressive on the court. He lost his last two matches, after winning nine consecutive.\n"It has been a great start for Jakub. He has shown patience and has lots of confidence," Rakvica said. "We need him." \nPraibis is 11-3 in spring singles and 6-7 in doubles.\nAlso coming on as of late has been junior Zach Held. He won his first conference match of the season last Sunday against Iowa in straight sets.\nHydinger said Held's game is really coming together, and that he works hard, he thinks about the game, tries to improve and it is paying off. \nHeld also paired with freshman Ryan Recht to upset the No. 1 doubles team of Notre Dame 8-3 last Saturday. Recht is 13-10 in doubles this year.\n"I'm concentrating more on my backhand now, even though I won my last match," Recht said. "I struggled with my backhand."\nIU leads the all-time series versus Purdue 52-23-1. They will attempt to make it 53.\n"It would be more special to beat them at their place," Smiley said. "It would be that much more sweet"
(03/28/02 6:01am)
Senior Rahman Smiley could have surrendered hope; instead, his unremitting injury and the team's struggles have only inspired him to make the best of a complicated situation. Maybe that is the lesson tennis has taught him. No matter how difficult a challenge, if you simply try to do your best, you might be presently surprised at the results.\nDespite his chronic back injury, which has limited him to action in only seven matches this season, Smiley has kept a positive demeanor.\n"Well, he's done it. He's kept his head about it," coach Ken Hydinger said. "He has tried to help other guys on the team and he has shown maturity. He has really matured." \nHydinger has faith in his seniors on the team, especially Smiley. \n"He brings the right attitude to the game," Hydinger said. "He cares about the game. It's a part of him. He has been a vocal leader for this team."\nSenior Milan Rakvica said it must be very hard for Smiley to deal with the back injury and watch the team. Rakvica said Smiley does a great deal of rehab, and it is only a matter of time before he returns.\n"It will give Rahman more appreciation," Rakvica said. "It will make him try even harder when he gets on the court, so I think it will be good in the end." \n Hydinger stressed the importance of communication within the team. He said if instruction does not come from within the team, then it is probably not going to come. Smiley, who stands 6-foot-4, provides the instruction, a drastic change from his freshman year, where he was timid, his coach said. \n"When I'm not playing I give the guys advice if I have played the guy before," Smiley said. "I point out the negative things they are doing; not only the negative things, but positives as well. I try and get my teammates' spirits up."\nSmiley, a journalism major, has steadily improved his play every year at IU. During his freshman year in 1998-1999, he was 13-12 overall and 4-7 in the Big Ten. Sophomore year he jumped to 23-14 and 7-3 in the conference. Last year he maintained a similar record as the previous year going 22-12, but significantly increased to 10-2 in the Big Ten.\nHydinger said his groundstrokes are better and he has refined his game. He has studied points and people. Hydinger said physically, emotionally and mentally his game is better. \nSmiley has a career singles record of 68-46 and several people to thank for his success.\nHe said his mom and dad have helped create his attitude and personality and have taught him valuable lessons he will never forget. \nThe senior has genuinely enjoyed his time at IU, and he will be sad to see it come to an end. Smiley reflected back on his time in Bloomington.\n"The academics are great at IU and the campus is awesome," Smiley said. "The coaches and players are good people and I knew that it was the best place for me to develop as a tennis player against top competition"
(03/08/02 5:34am)
The IU men's tennis team's next three matches are against highly ranked teams, but IU welcomes the challenge. \nThe Hoosiers (6-4, 0-1 Big Ten) play a trio of matches over spring break. These matches are against Clemson, South Alabama and Kentucky. The Hoosiers play in Mobile, Ala., at the University of South Alabama Invitational versus the Tigers (7-4) Sunday and against the host Jaguars (7-5) Tuesday. \nThey play at Kentucky (8-3) Thursday. IU was defeated in Lexington, Ky., 6-0 last year but has yet to face Clemson or South Alabama. \nAll three matches are outdoors, the Hoosiers' first of the spring. They will be played against traditionally outdoor teams, which puts the Hoosiers at a disadvantage. Despite that, IU coach Ken Hydinger and the players are excited about the outdoor atmosphere. \n"We will have to adjust to the ball more," Hydinger said. "We will have to be more patient. It will make the players change their thought process."\nThe players are eager and optimistic to play outdoors. IU's first outdoor practice was Tuesday, when the weather was sunny but still brisk and windy. Freshman Jakub Praibis is excited for the opportunity but is cognizant of the problems presented by playing outside. \n"I have problems with serves and overhands outside," Praibis said. "The wind is the worst problem for me outdoors." \nPraibis, who is on a seven-match winning streak, has been as strong as anybody on the team, Hydinger said. Despite not feeling his best, Praibis won his last match against Northwestern. He is 9-1 in spring singles and 6-3 in doubles. He said he has tried to remain focused and play his best every time out. \nIn addition to Praibis, other freshmen have carried the load. Freshman Tom Bagnato has a four-match winning streak and a 6-1 spring singles record.\n"I have been more constant in my rallies," Bagnato said. "I'm just keeping points alive longer. Before, I wasn't doing that."\nBesides the youth exhibited on this team, the seniors have done their share of work. Senior Milan Rakvica has struggled recently, losing his last three singles matches. He still sits in seventh place on IU's all-time career wins list with 85 and has 65 career doubles victories as well. He is 6-4 in spring singles and 12-8 overall.\nMeanwhile, a re-occurring story as been injuries to key players. Senior Rahman Smiley suffers from a chronic back problem. He missed the last match against Northwestern, and it is unclear when he will return. Smiley, who is 3-3 in the spring and 10-8 overall, will most likely not see action in the next match. He said his back has good days and bad days. \nOther injuries this spring include a calf injury by junior Zach Held and knee and wrist problems suffered by Praibis. The team has been healing, and Smiley's back is the only significant injury. \nThe Hoosiers have a lull in the conference season, but Hydinger said it doesn't matter that there is a four-match break between IU's first conference match and its second. IU's next conference match isn't until March 24. \n"The schedule will make our team grow," Hydinger said. "I'm just happy to play challenging teams."\nThe three opponents present a daunting challenge, and IU's all-time records versus them show it. The Hoosiers possess a 3-1 all-time record versus Clemson, 0-2 against South Alabama and 4-19 against Kentucky. The Hoosiers will look to improve upon those marks and seek their seventh victory of the season. \n"We have to gut it out," Bagnato said. "It's going to be tough because they have played outdoors a lot"
(03/01/02 5:58am)
The IU men's tennis team (6-3) battles Northwestern Saturday in a match at noon that begins a four-game road trip. This is the first Big Ten match of the season for the Hoosiers, while the Wildcats (8-3) possess a 3-0 record in conference play. \nCoach Ken Hydinger, in his 18th season at IU, stressed the importance of this early conference season clash. \n"It's going to be a dogfight," Hydinger said. "Everybody in the Big Ten will be ready, no matter what record they have." \nThe younger players have favorably served the Hoosiers, but IU must work on being ready to play every time out, Hydinger said. Senior Ari Widlansky looks for the youth to rise to the occasion. \nIntensity and emotion could be critical in these matches. Northwestern historically has strong fan support, and because they are playing in a new facility, the Combe Tennis Center in Evanston, Ill., the fans might be more excited. \nThe doubles point could be an issue. The Hoosiers have won only one doubles point in their last five contests. That point could be the difference Saturday. \n"The doubles point will be huge," Widlansky said. "It will establish momentum heading into singles."\nSenior Milan Rakvica said he believes winning doubles would be a plus and that the younger players need to step up. \n One younger player who could make a difference is freshman Jakub Praibis. He has won six consecutive singles matches. Praibis has been with the team for only two months but plays like he has been with them two years. He boasts a gaudy 8-1 singles mark and is 5-3 in doubles.\n "He doesn't overhit," Hydinger said. "He opens up the court with his serve and is able to set up points off his serve. He has been playing more consistent than ever."\nBesides Praibis, freshmen Jullien Vulliez, Tom Bagnato and Ryan Recht are establishing themselves as foundations for the near future. \nRakvica, meanwhile, is establishing himself as one of the top players in IU history. He sits in seventh place on IU's all-time career singles wins list with 85. In doubles, he is in seventh place. \nRakvica is 12-7 in overall singles and 6-3 in the spring and typically plays at the No. 1 position. He faded in his last match against Evansville after winning the first set and ended up losing the match.\n"Milan is capable of playing better, but he is playing very well," Hydinger said. "It's hard for him to play against No. 1 players every time out because the competition level is so high."\nIU has its share of injuries. Senior Rahman Smiley isn't expected to play because of a nagging back injury. He will be difficult to replace, as he has dominated Big Ten competition, going 21-12 for his career. \nHydinger said this is the healthiest the team's been in a while. It's the first time it has been able to do any conditioning in the past 10 days. \nDespite Smiley's absence, the Hoosiers will have the services of junior Zach Held, who took a leave of absence for about two weeks because of personal reasons. He is 9-9 in overall singles and typically contributes at the No. 3 and No. 4 positions. \nThe Hoosiers look to move one game above .500 all-time against Northwestern. They own a 36-36 all-time mark against the Wildcats, including an 11-15 record in Evanston. IU won 4-3 in last season's meeting and will attempt to duplicate that feat this year and win its first conference match of the season.
(02/28/02 5:38am)
Commitment to tennis, respect of the game, excellence and the belief that the human spirit can accomplish what they desire if they are willing to pay the price. \nThis sentence on the men's tennis team's Web site explains the philosophy of coach Ken Hydinger, and it describes senior Ari Widlansky, too. Widlansky exemplifies the above qualities. He is a piece in the IU tennis program puzzle, and his attitude mirrors that of his coach.\nWidlansky hasn't played in all of, or even the majority of, the matches during his career at IU, but he continues to persevere. To put it in perspective, senior Milan Rakvica has played in 132 career singles matches, while Widlansky has played in only 50, including 13 this year. He is 24-26 in his career, with a 7-6 record this year, but that doesn't bother him much. \nWhen Widlansky doesn't play, he attempts to get the players to stay positive on the court. Hydinger always stresses emotional control on the court, and Widlansky helps the players by supplying support and energy. Widlansky said it's hard to sit out, but someone has to do it. \n"We cheer for each other," he said. "You want to be able to play and help the team, but we just want to win."\nWidlansky's strong support has yielded others to cheer more for their teammates as well. He is steadily improving his play, cruising in his last singles match 6-1, 6-1 against Evansville. In addition, he won in doubles 8-2 with freshman Jullien Vulliez. \n"He knows what's going on," Rakvica said. "He's done a great job leading the younger players by example."\nWidlansky, a business major, said the highlight of his career is simply attending IU. He is from Coral Springs, Fla., and wanted a change; the Midwest provided one. \n And since that change of scenery, Widlansky has helped the Hoosiers make the NCAA Tournament each of his first three years. Last year, he played in the first round of the NCAA Regionals against Indiana State. He lost at the No. 6 singles position, and the Hoosiers suffered the same fate 4-1. Plus, he won the ITA Regional Florida Doubles Tournament with former IU player Paul Jacobson in the summer of 2000. \nBesides helping the team as a whole, Widlansky has spent this season helping the younger players adjust to the college level. He said they've played well this spring and have proved to be quick learners. There are eight freshmen on the team, and Widlansky said sometimes you have to tell them what to do. But that's expected from such a novice group.\nWidlansky has used tennis to broaden his horizons. Last summer in Israel, he won the bronze in doubles at the World Maccabi Games. It was a three-week tournament, and about 400 athletes participated in the event. It was held at a time when there was unrest in the Middle East, yet Widlansky decided to attend. He was very satisfied with the opportunity and would take it again if offered. \n"There were many different types of people there," Widlansky said. "It was an experience of a lifetime."\nWidlansky said he'll miss the competition more than anything after this season. In terms of his career, he doesn't know what he will do. He said he'll be sad to end his career but also excited to start another chapter of his life.\nHydinger will miss Widlansky's helping hand.\n"You need a brick on the foundation or else the building is going to fall," Hydinger said. "Widlansky is a stable, stable player, and he will be missed"
(02/22/02 6:26am)
Freshman Ryan Recht is the definition of hard work.\nTake this as evidence.\nAt Fort Wayne's Homestead High School, he was the youngest winner of the Fort Wayne city tournament in its 89-year history at the tender age of 17. He went on to win the tournament three consecutive years.\n"I was very excited to win the tournament those three years," Recht said. "It was great because it was more special each additional time I won it."\nHe has taken that definition of hard work to IU, where he is an integral part of the men's tennis team. Recht impresses his coach, Ken Hydinger. \n"He has a big serve and solid volleys," Hydinger said. "He goes about his business. He plays at a high level, and I am proud of him for that." \nRecht's returns are somewhat suspect, but he is improving. Plus, his demeanor on and off the court is exemplary.\nHe never gets upset on the court, and his approach off the court is similar to his attitude on it. He treats the community and his elders with respect. \n"He is a really solid citizen," Hydinger said. \nRecht, a business major, said he has enjoyed his experience at IU. \n"It's been great," Recht said. "I'm meeting new people and enjoying my time playing tennis." \nRecht considered other schools close to home because he didn't want to be too far from his family and friends. He wanted his family to be able to see him play his college matches. He considered IU, Purdue, Ball State and Western Michigan. \nOne of the deciding factors was the fact that Recht's father attended IU and had a good experience. The Hoosiers have benefited from Recht's decision, especially since he's proved valuable in doubles play. He is 11-6 in overall doubles this year, including 4-4 in the spring. In contrast, he is only 7-9 in overall singles and 2-3 in the spring. A big factor in the difference in his records is his doubles partner -- usually senior Rahman Smiley. \n "It's partially because I have a good partner in Rahman," Recht said. \n Recht and Smiley seem to work well work together, which is a plus. When they play together, their opponents have to face two big service games. Smiley has also contributed leadership to Recht. \n Sometimes Smiley has to tell him what to do, but that's because Recht is a freshman. Recht learns more every day, and his partner touts his talent and work ethic. \n"He has a lot of natural ability," Smiley said. "He listens to what the coaches tell him." \nIn the near future, Recht could see more playing time because junior Zach Held decided to take a leave of absence for personal reasons. It is for an undisclosed amount of time. \nThe elated freshman's tennis career aspirations include moving up in the lineup, eventually to No. 1. Meanwhile, he has been playing at No. 5 and No. 6 this season. \nWhen he is a senior, Recht sees the sky as the limit. \n"I hope to become one of the better players in the country," he said.
(02/22/02 6:25am)
The IU men's tennis team hits the court with a clash against Evansville Saturday at 9 a.m. at the Indiana Tennis Center. This marks the Hoosiers' (5-3) last non-conference match before the Big Ten season begins March 2 at Northwestern. IU has played eight matches this spring, while Evansville (1-1) has played only twice. \nMatches help teams mature, but the difference in the number of matches won't help the Hoosiers more than Evansville.\n"Evansville will be ready and eager to face a Big Ten opponent," coach Ken Hydinger said. "It would be a special win to them."\nIU's good mental and emotional states both on and off the court have been instrumental in its success, and younger players have been the ones exhibiting this emotional control.\nFreshman Jakub Praibis is 7-1 in spring singles and 4-3 in doubles. Praibis had a sore knee in his last match against Middle Tennessee State and considering that injury, he played tough. \nFreshman Tom Bagnato's emotional presence has been solid as well. Bagnato boasts a 5-1 record in spring singles and has not appeared in doubles. But Bagnato has been up and down. \n"He's had a rollercoaster season," Hydinger said. "One game he's up and the next game he's down. He needs to be more consistent." \nBagnato was down one set and 3-1 in the second set against his last opponent but fought back to win. In addition, freshmen Ryan Recht, Jon Magnes and Reid Strand have all contributed. Magnes has played solely at singles this spring, and Strand has played at doubles. Recht recalls his own poise. \n"My confidence is high in doubles, because I feel very confident in Rahman (Smiley)," Recht said. \nThe seniors have also elevated their level of play. \nOne of those seniors is Smiley, who is 3-2 in spring singles and 3-3 in doubles. He has been hobbled by a sore back, which has good days and bad days. Despite his injuries, Smiley just goes out and plays. \n"He doesn't let the situation dictate what's going to happen," Hydinger said. "He has a lot of heart." \nIn addition to Smiley, senior Milan Rakvica is a leader on the team. He is in seventh place on the Hoosiers' all-time career singles wins list with 85 and needs one victory to tie Paul Jacobson for sixth. Rakvica is 6-2 in spring singles and 12-6 overall this season. He is not only strong at singles; he ranks eighth on IU's all-time doubles wins list with 64.\nLike Rakvica's play, the team's intensity has been solid, even though the Hoosiers have lost the doubles point the last four matches. The competition they have played has been a factor in their doubles struggles. All of Middle Tennessee State's doubles pair, for example, were ranked. \nRecht focused on the team's future mentality. \n"We have to hang in there," he said. \nThe team has to fight through injuries, as well. Smiley is out one match, Recht the next and Held the next. Furthermore, teams they have played, such as Ball State, are traditionally strong in doubles. \n"We need to win them," Smiley said. "But we're playing hard teams in doubles just about every time out." \nThe team needs to get back on the right track in doubles, especially before the Big Ten season begins.\nThe Hoosiers are undefeated all-time versus the Purple Aces, posting an 8-0 record, including a 6-0 mark in Bloomington.\n"We need to take advantage of the home matches," Smiley said, "because we have quite a few road matches coming up"
(02/15/02 5:30am)
After a gritty 4-3 loss to Vanderbilt, the situation for the IU men's tennis team doesn't get any easier.\nThe Hoosiers (5-2) travel south to take on Middle Tennessee State 10 a.m Sunday. The Hoosiers lost their lone road match this year at Louisville Jan. 24, while the Blue Raiders (4-0) defeated Louisville earlier this season at home. \nIU holds a 3-1 all-time mark against the Blue Raiders, and the Hoosiers are looking forward to the challenge they will present. \nCoach Ken Hydinger spoke highly of both them and of his team's chances. \n"It's a big match," Hydinger said. \nHe added that it's an opportunity to get a good road victory in a hostile environment, and he highlighted that this type of game will prepare his team for the Big Ten season. \nThe Hoosiers have only two more matches before they begin conference play at Northwestern March 2. \nHydinger said everything they will face Sunday will help them later on in the season. \nThe environment and venue will be instrumental. The matches will be held at the Racquet Club in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Hydinger said the crowd will be aggressive, and in addition to the atmosphere, he thinks this match could help secure an NCAA Tournament bid. \n"With a win we can build our NCAA Tournament resume," he said. \nIU has been hampered by injuries. Senior Rahman Smiley has had a sore back is slated to only play doubles, but depending on how he feels, Hydinger said Smiley could play singles, as well. Freshman Jakub Praibis will fill in at No. 2 singles for Smiley. Senior Milan Rakvica recently has had a bad back but is expected to play in both singles and doubles. \nIn order for the team to be successful Sunday, Rakvica, who is 6-1 in spring singles, said it needs to get off to a good start with doubles. The Hoosiers have lost the doubles point in their last three matches. Rakvica said it's a team lapse in concentration. \nRakvica said all players are performing really well right now; they just need to be more relaxed.\nFreshman Ryan Recht, who is 4-3 in spring doubles, agreed with Rakvica about the team simply relaxing. \n"We need to play our game," Recht said. \nRecht said that it's going to be a tough match because it's on the road, but he has confidence in the squad. \nConfidence seems to be emerging from the freshmen, and their records show it. Praibis is 6-1 in spring singles and 4-2 in doubles, while freshman Tom Bagnato is 4-1 in singles but hasn't played doubles. Recht is 1-3 in singles. \nIU played three freshmen in both singles and doubles against Vanderbilt. \nThe Blue Raiders boast a strong club. At No. 1 singles, they have 12th-ranked Daniel Klemetz. The Blue Raiders also bring in 27th-ranked Robert Gustafsson at the No. 2 position.\nRecht is cognizant of Middle Tennessee State's talent. He said their top singles guy is tough and that they are strong at doubles, too. Recht said he anticipates them to have a win-at-all-costs attitude. \nBut Rakvica believes the Hoosiers will be fine if they play like they did against Vanderbilt. \n"We need to come out and fight hard," Rakvica said.