Lady Raider Tennis Opens at Furman Invitational

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Middle Tennessee women's tennis opens the fall campaign at the Furman Invitational in Greenville, South Carolina, which begins Friday September 26 and runs through Sunday September 28. A tough tournament to open up with, the Furman Invitational lists a strong field including Clemson, South Carolina, Vanderbilt and North Carolina. Some of the country's top players will be competing as they tune-up for All-Americans next weekend in Pacific Palisades, California. "This is an extremely good tournament," said head coach Randy Holden. "The level of competition is high with 90 percent of the teams ranked in the top 25." Testing his team's mettle is a top priority for Holden at this tournament. After spending a month practicing and hitting against each other, he and the team are anxious to face an opponent in real match situations. "I want our new players to get a chance to get their feet wet and realize the level of competition they will be facing," Holden said. "We are looking to win some matches and build our confidence." Top returning player Manon Kruse, ranked No. 37 in singles by the ITA, will try and continue to excel in her senior season. Two years ago, Kruse won the singles and doubles title at the Furman Invitational. "She had played just about everyone in the tournament this weekend and she has beaten them all," Holden said. "I think her top competition will be Clemson's Julie Coin." Overall, the tournament will allow Holden to access newcomers like freshman Ana-Maria Cibils and Jacqui Williams as well as veterans Carien Venter, Jennifer Klaschka, Laura McNamara and Emily Vest.

Middle Tennessee State University Athletics

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Jennifer Klaschka

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Laura McNamara

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Emily Vest

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