Troy University Athletics
Win Streak on the Line at USA
3/24/2010 3:00:00 PM | Tennis
TROY, Ala. - The 68th-ranked Troy University men's tennis team puts its win streak on the line against in-state foe South Alabama Thursday afternoon in Mobile.
Troy (13-3), who climbed six spots in this week's ITA poll, has won eight consecutive matches since dropping a 4-3 decision to Winthrop last month. The Trojans have six of those eight on the road during the streak, but venture to a place they have not had much success at in the past - Mobile.
"We have struggled against South Alabama," Troy head coach Eric Hayes. "We haven't beaten them since I have been here, and the kids understand they will be in for a battle playing against them. It doesn't matter what your ranking is when you play a rival, we just have to be prepared to play on Thursday."
The Trojans have been led this season in singles play by number one player Luis Henrique Grangeiro, who snapped a personal two-match losing streak on Tuesday. The 17th-ranked player in the Southern Region has compiled a record of 11-4 this season, including a 7-2 record in his last 10 matches - as one match went unfinished.
Mario Rolemberg, the partner of Grangeiro in doubles play, has compiled an identical singles record of 11-4 and a 7-3 record in his last 10 matches. Five of the six singles players for the Trojans have put up winning records, with Aurelien Tave posting the most wins at 12 from his number two position - including winning seven of his last 10 matches.
In doubles play, the number one team of Grangeiro and Rolemberg have posted a 12-4 record, while the team of Branko Weber and Xavier Masson have posted an 11-5 record. However, both teams have won nine of their 10 matches on the courts for the Trojans.
Meanwhile, South Alabama (6-7) enters the match after a week layoff and a loss to Florida Atlantic back on March 18. The Jaguars are led by Romain Bocart with a 9-3 dual record this season, playing at number one and number two. He has posted a 4-2 record playing at number one and a 5-1 record playing at number two. The Jaguars have teamed up 15 different teams in doubles play this season.
For more information on Troy University athletics, check with TroyTrojans.com. For ticket information, contact the Troy University Athletics Ticket Office at 1-877-878-WINS (9467).
