Sept. 6, 2001

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. - The Southeast Missouri State women's tennis team will open their Fall practice season by playing at the Eastern Illinois Tournament this weekend in Charleston, Ill.

Head Coach Donna Ryan's team returns four athletes from a season ago and welcome three newcomers, who should help make a difference right away. Last year's squad struggled at time due to youth and reoccurring injuries and this year's squad will also be very youthful, but this group is more experienced and focused.

Newcomers Tyla Wells and Daniela Garcia will look to make their Southeast debuts by playing at the number one and two singles positions and as the number one doubles tandem. The success of this year's squad may hinge on how well these newcomers adjust and start to contribute.