FREMONT, Neb. – In its efforts to avenge a regular-season loss, the Concordia University men’s tennis team came up short while taking on Morningside in the GPAC quarterfinals on Friday morning (May 4). The Mustangs ended the match before No. 3 singles could be completed, taking it by a 5-3 score on the courts at Fremont High School in Fremont, Neb.
Fourth-year head coach Joel Reckewey’s squad ended its season at 8-11 overall. It had also dropped a 5-4 decision to Morningside (5-15) on the final day of the regular season.
“The guys played as a team and showed toughness at No. 1 doubles,” Reckewey said. “I’m so pleased with our doubles play. The victory at No. 1 sent a statement. We knew it was going to be a tough match. Our guys fought hard. I think we’re taking steps forward as a program. There were a lot of close matches where we were in positions to win.”
The Bulldogs were forced to try to fight back from a 2-1 deficit at the end of doubles play. The lone Concordia victory in doubles came via the duo of Jeremy Berryman and Luke Zoller at No. 1. In singles, No. 1 Thomas Greeff and No. 6 Josh Miller gave the Bulldogs a shot by churning out wins. The Mustangs picked up a critical win at No. 2 singles, where Samuel Castro held off Zoller in three sets. In the only match that did not finish, Berryman led Jesus Sanz, 6-2, 4-6, 2-0.
Morningside then fell 5-0 to No. 1 seed Midland in the GPAC semifinals. Concordia had been attempting to get back to the semifinals like it had in 2017 when it topped Midland in the quarterfinals. With all underclassmen in Friday’s lineup, the Bulldogs could make a more lasting appearance in next year’s postseason event.