The tennis team has so far had more losses than wins in their debut season but this could change after the recruitment process.

So far, 491 prospective Loyola students  have expressed interest in hopefully playing for the tennis team in the 2010-2011 school year. Zubin Engineer, head coach of the tennis team, has already been scouting for players and is optimistic about next season’s roster.

However, Engineer said he plans to set the bar for recruitment higher in terms of sheer skill than previously and the recruitment process will allow him to choose next season’s players based on their developed skills.

“Right now, I am looking for players who invest time in their tennis, who participate in USTA (United States Tennis Association) events and who play all year round,” said Engineer.

Engineer points out skills, practice and dedication are the most important qualities that he is looking for in a genuine athlete capable of playing for Loyola’s tennis team.

“I need players who can execute every shot in the game,” said Engineer. “They also need to have one or two weapons in terms of having a big serve or forehand.”

Engineer started with a walk-on team this year and succeeded in helping this year’s team progress and develop as an athlete on the college level. However, the recruitment process coming up hopes to provide the team with more seasoned athletes.

“Next season, I am hoping that the team will give more depth so that we will be able to compete against top teams in our conference,” said Engineer.

Yvette Naniuzeyi can be reached at [email protected]