Share Tweet Share Email

Tennis to host ITA Second Chance Regional

October 20, 2011

NIU Huskies women's tennisThe Northern Illinois women’s tennis team looks to close its fall season as the Huskies host the ITA Second Chance Regional Tournament this weekend at the Boylan Tennis Center in Rockford, Ill.

NIU will face off against the likes of Chicago State, Illinois, Michigan State, Milwaukee, and Wisconsin, as well as MAC foe Western Michigan.

After a three-week break, the Huskies are fresh and ready to finish the fall schedule on a high note.

The most notable among those looking to end strongly is freshman Nelle Youel (Crystal Lake, Ill./Crystal Lake Central), who has posted an impressive 5-1 singles record. Along with the strong performance in singles play, Youel and sophomore teammate Haley Dekkinga (Allegan, Mich./Allegan) have dominated so far posting a 5-1 record as doubles partners.

“We just want to see overall improvement,” said NIU head coach Ryun Ferrell.

“We came out of the gate a little slow at Western Michigan and we’ve talked about it. We’ve amped up our accountability and discipline, and we’ve went in a totally different direction in a good way the last two weeks. I’m excited to see what this team is going to be like. We’ve intensified the effort. The girls have stepped up and done a great job. The team looks a lot better. I’d like to see it translate into results for these girls because they deserve it.

“It’s also nice to play here. We have to drive a bit each day but nothing like a six-hour, overnight road trip.”

The ITA (Intercollegiate Tennis Association) is the governing body of both men’s and women’s college tennis at the NCAA Divisions I, II, and III levels as well as the NAIA and Junior/Community College level. To learn more about the ITA and other upcoming events, visit ITATennis.com.

The ITA Second Chance Regional will kick off Friday, Oct. 21, and conclude Sunday, Oct. 23. Play will begin at 10 a.m. all three days of the tournament.

For more information on NIU women’s tennis and Huskie athletics, visit www.niuhuskies.com.