Senior Anja Gugger is a key contributor for the Mountaineers. (Photo: ASU Athletics) W. Tennis, N.C. Central , Feb. 3: Game statistics W. Tennis, Coastal Carolina, Feb. 2: Game statistics

2008 Women's Tennis Preview
by Appalachian Sports Information

February 1, 2008 - BOONE, N.C.- Appalachian women’s tennis has high expectations for the 2008 season. After posting a 10-15 record last season, including a 2-7 mark in Southern Conference play, the Mountaineers will rely on senior leadership and guidance to meet their goals.

The path to success will prove to be a challenging one as the Apps have numerous strong opponents on their schedule. Appalachian opens the 2008 campaign on the road at Coastal Carolina, followed by seven more opponents before heading into SoCon action. Among the non- conference foes are
Winston Salem- State and Lees-McRae, two teams in which the Mountaineers handily defeated in 2007, winning 7-0 and 6-0 respectively.

Once the non-conference portion of the schedule ends, the Apps will face a Southern Conference that is loaded with talent. Defending SoCon champion Furman will be a force to be reckoned with, along with top-tier teams such as Davidson, Georgia Southern and College of Charleston. This season, the Apps face four strong Southern Conference opponents on their home court,
including Davidson, Georgia Southern and College of Charleston.

Head Coach Colin Crothers has much anticipation about the 2008 schedule
and the match-ups between SoCon competitiors.

“I believe that we will be very competitive in the Southern Conference. Our key matchups will be Wofford, Chatanooga and Western Carolina. I am looking forward to see how the freshman react to the pressure of college play.”

The Mountaineers success depends on the play of their key returners, including senior standout Anja Gugger. Gugger, who played primarily at the No. 1 singles position last season, posted a 4-11 record at the No. 1 spot and an overall record of 5-13. Joining Gugger will be Monica Tomas. Tomas, just a junior, played at the No. 2 spot and is an important asset for Appalachian, Tomas posted a 5-10 record at No. 2 during 2007 and went 2-6 in conference play.

Other returnees that are vital for the Mountaineers include sophomore Amanda Cash and junior Mallory Cook.

“I have my top three conference players back from last year in Anja Gugger, Monica Tomas and Amanda Cash,” Crothers said. “We also have a huge amount of depth on the team.”

Appalachian begins the season with a four game road trip before returning home on Feb. 22 to play Lees-McRae