Net News, Volume 4
2/8/2025 6:55:00 AM | Men's Tennis
Hello Bama Tennis Fans,
The Crimson Tide has rolled down and over to Tallahassee [Florida] for a non-conference matchup against No. 15 Florida State. The match will be played at the FSU Indoor Tennis Facility though the weather would strongly suggest that we play at the Scott Speicher Memorial Tennis Center, an outdoor venue. The challenge for us is getting enough practice time outdoors in Tuscaloosa with our not-so-predictable weather in January and early February. Playing with the elements is more challenging than going from outdoor play to indoors, so we shall compete in our final indoor contest of 2025. One year ago, we dropped a 4-3 contest at home to the 2024 ACC champions, so we're excited for the challenge ahead on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET (12 p.m. CT).
We've had an exciting start to the season though it hasn't been void of injury, illness or international competition. We had a hamstring and groin issue hamper a couple of players, while the flu hit several others hard. Filip Planinsek and Matic Kriznik were invited to compete for Slovenia in a Davis Cup tie against Indonesia. What a special honor for them which was supported 100% by the coaches and players, as well as an assurance that the guys staying in Tuscaloosa would step up to the task at hand.
Another great home crowd on Friday as Big Al was at the R.A.B. (Roberta Alison Baumgardner Indoor Tennis Facility) as well as many boys and girls for Bama Tennis Kids Day. Most of the kids were from the after-school tennis program held at our courts during the academic year. Great to have them and their families participate in the match festivities and cheering on the home team. The Tide struck first in doubles and continued to roll in singles as Andrii Zimnokh, Zach Foster and Damien Nezar tallied wins to make the final score, Alabama 4, Tulsa 0. Match Bama! Roll Tide!
An earlier than usual start on Sunday brought a lighter crowd to the courts early on but they joined us in full force after morning worship. MTSU, a defending five-time Conference USA champion, lost the doubles point but captured four of six first sets. We only had six players available, and they rose up to the challenge. Matias Ponce De Leon, Roan Jones and Andrii came through big time and clinched the match for the Tide, 4-2. Match Bama! Roll Tide!
Alabama A&M closed out the weekend in the Sunday doubleheader. The Crimson Tide rolled over the Bulldogs 4-0, taking the doubles point again plus singles wins by Matias, Roan and Carlos Gimenez Perez (Carlos' first Bama dual match victory). Alabama 4, Alabama A&M 0. Match Bama! Roll Tide!
In Davis Cup action, Filip captured his first Davis Cup win with a straight-set singles victory. Matic didn't compete but cheered on his countrymen as Team Slovenia defeated Indonesia 4-0. Ajde!
Our Crimson Racket Club continues to grow. We are approaching 100 members. Let's go! So thankful for the support and the impact it makes to our programs.
We will officially switch to the outdoor season next week and have added Presbyterian College to our schedule for a Valentine's evening match on Friday, February 14 at 6 p.m. Bring your loved one and cuddle up at the courts while sharing the love of Alabama tennis with the Crimson Tide.
Until next time…
Roll Tide!
Coach George
