Tennis Head Coach Ed Paige was ready to start the MAAC season last week.
The Stags were scheduled to host St. Peter’s on March 18 in a doubleheader, but the Peacocks’ Head Coach Mike Scolamieri postponed the game, due to weather. Although it did not rain or snow, the cold was enough for the MAAC to move the games back to April 2 and 15.
“The rules are ambiguous,” said Paige. “We were prepared to play, but what’s done is done.”
The men’s team has started the season strong, with a 5-3 record.
The Stags have recorded wins over in-state rivals Hartford and Sacred Heart, as well as Villanova, Fordham and Queens College.
“The men have played well. We won the matches we were supposed to,” said Paige. “We want to make the MAAC final, which will probably be at Niagara.”
Fairfield won 6-1 against Queens on March 19 at the Stamford Indoor Athletic Club. Sophomore Ryan Berthod led the way with a win at the No.1 singles position and the No. 1 doubles position, with partner Chip Palumbo ’09.
Berthod is 9-7 in singles play this season, taking on the opponent’s most talented players. Berthod is also a combined 11-7 in doubles play, with partners Rob Ferrante ’11 (7-3), Glen Gannon ’08 (2-2) and Palumbo (2-1).
“Ryan is our No.1, he recorded wins over Villanova and Fordham. He is tremendous,” said Paige. “Playing No.1 is quite a challenge and he is superb at it. I am very impressed with his toughness.”
The women’s team has struggled early, due to injuries and inconsistency.
The Stags are off to a 2-5 start after picking up a win over Providence on March 24. Fairfield defeated the Big East opponent 6-1, with sophomores Dana Postupack and Paulina Rys picking up victories in the top two singles spots. Rys has won five matches in a row.
The duo also combined to win in the No.1 doubles spot to pick up yet another win. Postupack and Rys have combined for an impressive 10 wins this season.
“The women have had a tough go of it,” said Paige, “with injuries and sickness haunting us again.
“Rys has won the MAAC Player of the Week twice and has been a bright spot.”
The women return to action on March 27 at home against Fordham.
The men will take the courts next on March 30 at home against Hofstra.
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