BURNSVILLE, Minn. – Bemidji State University was tabbed to finish 10th in the NSIC Preseason Tennis Coaches’ Poll that was announced on Wednesday.
BSU tallied 20 points to finish just a few points back of Minnesota Crookston in ninth with 24 points. Augustana was selected to win once again with nine first-place votes and 81 points. Minnesota State garnered the other first-place vote and 71 points to come in second. University of Mary rounded out the top-three with 65 points.
“We are very excited about this mix of veteran and incoming student-athletes. They are a very positive group and support each other very well. Everyone has a role to play in the competitive success of the team, and they understand their roles well,” head coach Kyle Fodness said. “They also show a strong desire to improve and are a very competitive group. We are looking forward to a great year with this tremendous group of student-athletes, and being successful both on and off the courts!”
Newcomer Kate Taylor from Perth, Australia was selected as a Player to Watch.
“Kate has been a great addition to the team and we are looking forward to seeing her compete in the 2024 season,” Fodness said. “She brings a great competitive attitude and a strong understanding of the game. She has also been a great supporter of her teammates and shows tremendous sportsmanship.”
Last year, Bemidji State went 2-15 overall and 1-10 in NSIC play. BSU will have a trio of seniors set to compete this season in Sophie Groen, Isabel Nelson and Daniela Chulia. Sophomores Emilia Sand and Laura Burger return, with the addition of Macy Goochey. Four freshmen will be on the team this season in Taylor, Reagan Schwartzer, Valesca Rodriguez and Ana Lucia Ibanez.
The Beavers are set to open the 2024 seasaon on Saturday, Feb. 10 against Minnesota Crookston in a non-conference match in Grand Forks.
For more information on the Bemidji State tennis program, follow the Beavers on Twitter (@BSUBeaversTen), like them on Facebook (facebook.com/BSUBeavers) and follow them on Instagram (@BSUBeaversTen)
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University sponsors 15 varsity athletic programs with NCAA Division I men’s hockey membership in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association and women’s hockey membership in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).