The loss of five players would usually be a sign of a rebuilding year for University of Memphis head tennis coach Paul Goebel, but that may be a serious misconception. A solid summer practice schedule and a new class of talented freshmen will mean that the Tigers will open their 2005-06 schedule at the Middle Tennessee State Invitational with serious expectations.
"We lost five players from last season," Goebel said. "Even with the loss, we could be even better this year. We have great potential this year."
Goebel's optimism for this year's team includes the 11 nationally ranked teams that the Tigers have scheduled this spring.
The U of M will play several new schools, such as Washington and Harvard, as well as local rivals Ole Miss, who is ranked third in the nation this season.
"We are very excited to play so many good schools this year," Goebel said. "We need to play teams outside of our region so our program can be more well known. That is the key to building a big program."
Watching The U of M's program grow to prominence has been one of the most satisfying achievements for senior James Spence.
"It's been great to watch the team get better and better," Spence said. "I want to see the program get better and better. It is exciting to have all these new guys."
Spence led the Tigers last season to a nationally ranking in doubles with now graduated teammate Scott Felsenthal.
Taking over as a senior leader and competing for the number one singles position is a priority, said Spence.
"I'd probably be a little disappointed if I'm not number one," Spence said. "There are a lot of good guys this year and we are all competing. It is taking our team to an all new level."
The U of M will be able to evaluate who may earn the top positions this weekend at the tournament at MTSU.
The number one and number two single positions as well as the doubles team are still undecided.
"Winning or losing will not affect our national rankings this weekend," Goebel said.
"It is hard right now and we will know a lot more later. It is a good time for guys to get to know each other and the team."
The tournament will include plenty of talented competition for Tiger players hoping to earn the top singles positions or a spot on the doubles team.
The tournament will include two top 10 doubles teams and several ranked players.
Earning one those positions is something sophomore Garrison Pilant has worked hard on all summer long.
"You never really know every one is getting better," he said. "Where you actually stack up and where coach puts you could be two different things."
Even though no one is sure where the Tigers will stack up this season, a thrilling season is on the horizon, said Goebel.
"We are very excited," Goebel said. "We really want to become known as a top national program."
