Friday, Aug. 29, 2008

Young duo will set tone for Lancers

Top players for East are a sophomore and a freshman

BELLEVILLE -- Armed with two of the area's top young players, the Belleville East Lancers should once again be among the top girls tennis teams in the Southwestern Conference this season.

At least that is what coach Rebecca Schrader is hoping.

The Lancers return perhaps the best sophomore in the SWC in Lauren Bradley and also will feature highly touted freshman Alana Hofman along a deep supporting cast.

"We lost an excellent group of seniors, but we have a good group of girls again this season," Lancers coach Rebecca Schrader said. "They've worked hard on their games, and I'm anxious to get the season going.

"It should be another good year."

Bradley is beginning her second season at the top of the Lancers singles lineup.

Although just a freshman, Bradley posted several key wins over some of the area's top players a year ago..

"I think just being a year older and knowing more of what to expect will help her be more successful," Schrader said. "Her overall game has really improved and I know she'll have a successful season."

Hofman is the Lancers' No. 2 player and although she might struggle a little early, should be a solid contributor behind Bradley. Sophomore Michelle Gass and junior Miranda Lopez conclude the Lancers' top four players after holding down spots at the bottom of the varsity lineup a year ago.

"They have both improved a tremendous amount since last season," Schrader said. "I know it's a big jump to the No. 3 and No. 4 positions, but they'll do just fine."

Seniors Alexandra Vecchio and Allison Kniepkamp round out the top six players.

Vecchio is the Lancers captain. Others expected to help in either singles or doubles include seniors Sara Hill and Ashley Tylka, juniors Chloe Howenstein and Lena Koch and sophomore Alyssa Kelly.

The Lancers open their season on Saturday at the Champaign Invitational.

Contact reporter Dean Criddle at 239-2665 or dcriddle@bnd.com.