The Omnibus

Issue date: 5/13/04 Section: Sports

Comment on this article

The nationally-ranked Bearcats of Southwest Baptist University repeated as NCAA Division II North Central Regional Champions as they blanked Truman State, 5-0 in the first round, and defeated Colorado State University-Pueblo 5-0 in the second round.

Media Credit: Kellee Clark Seniors Mark Eori, Andras Bori and sophomore Dante Cipulli celebrate SBU´s North Central Regional Championship victory May 7-8 at the John Bryant Tennis Center.

SBU, ranked 14th nationally in Division II, went 6-0 in doubles and 4-0 in singles throughout the tournament. The North Central Regional brought a milestone for senior Mark Eori, as he won his 105th career singles match. A mark that ties the school record of most wins by a SBU men's tennis player. Eori now shares the record with Jim Klousia (1972-75) and Charlie Lane (1975-78). Eori did this by defeating Brandon Beauvals of Colorado-Pueblo 6-1, 6-2.

This is the second year in a row SBU will be heading to Florida for the NCAA Sweet 16. Last year, they advanced to the Elite Eight where they were defeated by Barry University.

The team feels much more prepared for nationals this year than last. They are more physically fit and have great team unity.

"The morale of the team is better this year than last," sophomore Peter Joos said. "We get along with each other both on and off the court. We play for each other. Not that we didn't get along last year, but this year we get along better. We also put in more work for the tournament this year. I know that I am more prepared physically this time around."

"I think coach (SBU Head Coach John Bryant) has definitely helped prepare us more physically this year," Eori said. "We also played more quality opponents this season. Playing teams like West Florida, Voldosta State and Drury helped us to get a feel for tough competition. I am excited to be going to Florida."

Not only is the team more fit, they also have more experience.

"Last year it was the first time for everyone in nationals. We have more experience this year, because we know what it is going to be like," number one singles player Dante Cipulli said. "I feel like I am playing much better this year. I am much more fit. Plus the whole team has practiced more this year. I got to know all the guys better. We have good team understanding and cohesion."

"We don't have definite expectations, we will just swing away, have fun and see what happens," Eori said. "To me, this is closure to two great seasons. We have already done what is expected by winning the (MIAA) conference tournament."

Cipulli also commented on what Bryant expects out of the team, "I think Coach expects us to at least return to the Elite Eight. But I think we can do much better than last year. Everyone has picked up their level of play. SBU will face Abilene Christian University in the first round of the Sweet 16. Overall, SBU is 4-5 all-time against ACU.

Article Tools