Franciscan 0, Ashland 9

STEUBENVILLE, OHIO - Franciscan Men's Tennis started their 2023-24 season with a matchup against Ashland on Thursday afternoon at the Belleview Courts. Three freshman made their collegiate debuts as the Barons battled against a strong Division II program in the Eagles

Doubles
     Franciscan had a pair of freshman at the #1 spot in Aaron Heinlein and Christopher Yvars. They showed a lot a talent with long rallies, but they fell 8-3. Callahan Hecton paired up with Owen Strandburg for the first time at the #2 spot. They would fall by the same result after a back and forth start to the match. Two returners, Jeremiah Greve and David Bourdelais, played #3 doubles. This would be the second collegiate doubles match that they had paired up together. They would fair the same, as the Eagles took a 3-0 lead into singles play.

Singles
    The same six players that played doubles for Franciscan would also play singles. Owen Strandburg would earn the most points of any Baron in an opening set, as he won three games. The young lineup of three freshman and three sophomores fought hard, but the rallies of the Eagles were too strong to overcome. 

Next Up
    Franciscan will head to Washington & Jefferson next Saturday to take on the Presidents in a non-conference matchup. The Barons are 6-0 all-time against them with a pair of 7-2 wins last season. This will be another great opportunity for this young lineup to get some experience before their traditional season ramps up in the spring semester. 

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