Tide Tennis Adds Dan Buikema to 2005-06 Roster
5/16/2005 12:00:00 AM | Men's Tennis
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Alabama head tennis coach Billy Pate has announced the signing of standout Dan Buikema. The USTA National Open champion will join the team this fall when he enrolls at the University as a freshman.
“We’re delighted Dan has signed with the University of Alabama,” Pate said. “He has been heavily recruited we’re glad he’s decided on us.”
Buikema has perhaps one of the biggest serves in the country. His serve has been clocked at speeds of 130 mph. En route to winning the USTA National Open this year, Buikema defeated the nation’s No. 2 ranked juniors player. He’s also recorded a Top 16 finish at the USTA Winter Super Nationals in Phoenix, AZ.
“Dan has made major breakthroughs this year with significant wins in national tournaments,” Pate said. “With possibly the biggest serve in the country among all 18 year-olds, Dan will provide a great physical presence in singles and doubles and give us some much needed firepower. He’s a raw talent and his game will get better and better as he starts his career for the Tide this fall.”
Buikema dominated high school tennis in the state of Michigan. In three seasons he recorded a 57-3 record and was a three-time All-State selection. Buikema is currently ranked 33rd nationally.
