Since setting the program record for wins in 2016, the Bemidji State tennis program has seen continued success, posting 10 win seasons each of the past two years. The Beavers look to continue that trend, as the team sits at 7-5 heading into the homestretch of the season. With three weeks left in the season, the Beavers are pleased with how things have gone so far.

“I think that this has been just an absolutely wonderful season,” said senior Zoë Lindgren. “We have a great group of girls on the team and we’ve been getting some wins when we need them and that’s all that matters.”

It’s been a balanced effort for Bemidji State, as five players have posted at least five singles wins this year.

“You look at our results and there’s no one person who’s carried us by any means, and the girls have really bought into that idea. Just get us your point and if you get us your point you’ve done your job, you can’t control the rest of it,” said head coach Mark Fodness.

And strong singles play is more important than ever this year. In the past, 9 points were awarded in matches, with 3 coming from doubles, but this year only 1 of a possible 7 points come from doubles play.

“Doubles is still important but the games go so fast, so we really want to stress singles,” said senior Breann Walsh. “You get more points with singles too so making sure our singles game is up to par is really important for us this year.”

The Beavers will look to finish their season strong, with three conference matchups left against Minnesota Crookston, Winona State and Upper Iowa, followed by two non-conference matchups before the NSIC tournament.  

“Building momentum is really important going into conference and Winona and Upper Iowa are both good teams, so I think we just have to play our game and keep improving towards the conference tournament,” said Walsh.

“We want to finish better than last year, that’s our goal main goal, and if we can get a couple more wins than I think that will put us where we need to be,” said Lingren.

By — AJ Feldman