BURNSVILLE, Minn. – Minnesota State University tennis was selected to finish second in the Northern Sun Conference this spring in the NSIC Preseason Women’s Tennis Coaches’ Poll, announced Wednesday (Jan. 31.) The Mavericks fell to Augustana in the NSIC Tournament Championship last season and compiled a 15-2 overall record (10-1 NSIC). 

Augustana, winners of the last 13 NSIC titles were selected at the top of the poll again this season. The Vikings amassed 81 points after going 21-4, 11-0 in the NSIC in 2023 and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Central Region Tournament. Minnesota State received one first place vote and had 71 points. University of Mary (65), Sioux Falls (56), and Winona State (41) rounded out the top-5.

Graduate student Chiara Carnelutti (Cordoba, Argentina) was named the Mavericks’ player to watch. In 2023, Carnelutti went 11-2 in singles, 9-1 against NSIC opponents. She also went 14-2 in doubles, 11-0 against NSIC opponents.

“We are so happy to have Chiara back for her last year,” said MSU head coach Tristen Bryant-Otake. “She is coming off of a great 2022-23 season and I can’t wait to see her back in NSIC action. She has stepped up as a co-captain this year alongside Avery Stilwell. I know her leadership, experience, and confidence will help lead our team to another great year.”

MSU tennis fell 6-1 to Division I Creighton in their first spring exhibition on Jan. 27. The Mavericks open the regular season at Gustavus Adolphus College Feb. 10 at Swanson Tennis Center in St. Peter, Minn. at 3:30 p.m.

NSIC Women’s Tennis Preseason Coaches’ Poll