STEUBENVILLE, Ohio—The Franciscan University Baron tennis team hits the road and gets ready to aim high for its first match of the season on Friday, March 18, at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.  Preseason hopes are soaring for a victorious season this year with six new players under second-year head coach Curtis Allen.

Allen is convinced that the talent and athleticism of these new players will prove a great contribution to the success of men's tennis at Franciscan University this season. "We are aiming high; this season we plan on taking home the banner," the head coach stated. "This is the second year for the men's tennis program at Franciscan University. We did well last season and we are excited about our potential coming into this season with a whole new team." 

The team has no returning players from last season but the fresh talent of this year's team is promising. Players to watch for the upcoming season are Paul Jarzynka, Leonel Lacayo, and Brian Robau.  The only senior on the team this year is Patrick Wilmot.

Last year, Franciscan's men's tennis team was in its infancy and no one knew quite what level of success to anticipate from the new team.  The 2010 season finished out with a record of 4-7 in the AMCC and 6-9 overall. Through hard work and dedication, the coaching staff is building a program that is already showing great promise.