Tennis men remain positive after loss

Rachel Hazlett
Mesa Legend

The MCC men’s tennis team recently suffered its first loss in three seasons, but continues to be optimistic as players look forward to future victories.
Head Coach Becky Opoien said the most influential element to the team’s success was that “they’re driven to be at a higher level.”
The team went undefeated the last two seasons and is now at a record of 4-1 this season after a 4-5 loss to Pima Community College Feb. 24.
Opoien deemed the MCCD tournament to be the highlight of the season thus far. The tournament was played Feb. 6 at the Raddison Resort where the Thunderbirds won every match played, finishing 22-0.
Chad Turner has been a great influence to the team’s success this season according to the coach. “Being that he’s a sophomore, he’s a mature player who knows how to handle the pace … he’s a mentally tough player,” Opoien said.
Turner said his success is due to his levelheaded attitude. “I have a good balance of power and control. I’m a versatile player and I keep my eye on the goal,” he said.
“ All around, we hit every element,” she said.
At this point, the tennis team is looking forward to meeting the Pima Aztecs once again on the court.
Turner noted that when Mesa plays PCC again March 25 at MCC, “we will really need depth from top to bottom. We need technical things to improve, we need to develop maturity.”
Opoien said there have been no major setbacks or problems this season. “Everything is great,” she said.
Opoien has a direction in mind for the team. “After regionals, which we’ve won the last two years, we’re hoping to play in Texas for nationals March 11 to March 18,” she said.

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