Play ugly.
That is what Bakersfield College’s men’s tennis Coach Rob Slaybaugh said about the team’s playing technique.
Freshman Jake Desme cites the team’s ability to play a “power game” with their rivals, and he says that the team constantly searches for ways to improve their mental game especially when facing a “deep” team such as Santa Barbara.
“They’re tough players,” said freshman Joseph Williams, speaking of Santa Barbara. Williams says his own strength lies in his forehand. Williams wants to keep improving upon his volleying technique.
According to Slaybaugh, there are eight different leagues in the state, and the league that BC is in is the strongest. Slaybaugh is predicting that BC’s team will become part of the top 10 in the state.
“We’re third or fourth in our league,” Slaybaugh said.
The team is 4-3 in WSC and 8-3 overall.
According to Slaybaugh, BC men’s have beaten teams in other leagues. Teams from the other leagues have beaten teams from the league that BC is in.
Slaybaugh says that the team is doing especially well in doubles.
Slaybaugh says that although BC has talented local men on the team, other areas such as Ventura and Santa Barbara have the advantage of having more foreigners on their teams.
This diversity of players equals more competitiveness and depth, Slaybaugh says.
The team lost to Glendale 1-7 March 22. However, the team beat Santa Barbara 7-2 on March 29. During the week break, the team’s April 5 match with Ventura at BC was canceled due to rain. The team will face LA Pierce Thursday, April 12 at BC.