Jan. 17, 2008

MILWAUKEE - The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee women's tennis team opens the spring portion of its 2008 season with a trip to Minneapolis.

The Panthers will play three matches this weekend, squaring off with Drake and South Dakota State Saturday before taking on Minnesota Sunday.

UWM had a strong fall season, winning both of its dual matches while posting strong overall performances at three invitational events. Freshman Jenna Felsher won nine singles matches while freshmen Martina Schnapp and Sammi Schoen each won eight contests. Plus, the sophomore doubles tandem of Kari Kastenholz and Kelly Drvaric won seven of their 11 outings.

The Panthers should be challenged by all three opponents this weekend. Drake finished 9-14 overall last season and split eight matches in the tough Missouri Valley Conference. South Dakota State went 5-10 a year ago but should receive a boost from moving into the Summit League this season. And, the hosts from Minnesota return seven contributors from a team that went 12-11 overall a season ago.