MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - The Middle Tennessee men's tennis team learned on Wednesday that in addition to competing in the NCAA Tournament as a team two of its members will also compete in the individual NCAA Championships.
Senior Robert McKenzie has earned a spot in the singles tournament and will also pair with teammate sophomore John Peers for the doubles portion.
"I am extremely proud of both Rob and John. They deserve this privilege after being recognized along with some of the best players in the country," head coach David McNamara said. "It is great honor to be playing in the NCAA Individual Championships. Having two players representing MTSU in the individual tournament is something I am very proud of."
McKenzie has posted a 16-1 record in dual matches this season and is 19-1 when including tournament action. The Melbourne, Australia native is currently ranked 89th in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association poll which is used to choose players for the individual side of the NCAA tournament.
McKenzie and Peers are currently 34th in the ITA rankings as a pair after posting an 8-1 record all at the No. 1 position.
"They first have to worry about next week before we can start thinking about the Individuals but I am a very excited to be heading to College Station, Texas with these two student-athletes," McNamara said. "First thing first though and that is to worry about Boise State next Friday."
Middle Tennessee is 57th as a team in the ITA poll and will use the next week to prepare for the NCAA Tournament before facing Boise State in the first round on May 8 in Tuscaloosa, Ala.
The individual side of the NCAA tournament will begin on May 20th in College Station, Texas as hosted by Texas A&M University.