New Tennis Courts Improve Play and Attract Fans

Despite their hard work in both practice and games, the Holy Cross men’s and women’s tennis teams were scarcely able to showcase their talent to classmates and other fans on Mount St. James. With the completion of the new tennis courts last September, however, the Crusaders can now proudly host numerous matches on what is now one of the Patriot League’s top facilities.

Last season, the condition of the courts only allowed the teams to play a total of three home games. This spring, however, they hosted three matches in one weekend alone. They are currently on their way to hosting 10 matches and have been delighted by the growing attendance of Holy Cross supporters who fill the brand new viewing walkways.

“The new courts have attracted more fans and it is always great motivation when you have family and friends to play for,” says Kristen Meahl ’10. “We are so appreciative of all the Holy Cross alums and parents who made generous donations and worked hard to plan and complete the project.”

Echoing this sentiment, Matt Wierzel ’11 added, “Playing on the new courts has really elevated everyone’s level of play. We have improved drastically as a team from last year.”

With both the men’s and women’s teams already surpassing their number of wins from last season, Mike Lucas, coach for both teams, is pleased with the improvement and excited by the prospect of attracting new competitive players who may have previously bypassed the program due to the poor court conditions.

“We are now able to get so much more out of practices, and we can now play two dual matches at the same time for both teams,” he says. “We’ve always had players who practiced and played hard and they are very deserving of a top-notch tennis facility.”

By Mary Moczula ’11

Pictured: Carolyn Chandley '12

Related Information:

• View a photo gallery of the new Holy Cross tennis courts