Otahkians open season at MU under new coach

Mike Stevens knows it will take time building Southeast Missouri State University's struggling women's tennis program into a winner.

But Stevens believes that will eventually happen.

"In time I think we can get it going, but it will take time to get the players we need to compete in the conference," he said. "It will take several years to get it to the point where we want it to be."

Stevens, Southeast's first-year coach, will lead the Otahkians into the new season today as they take on the University of Missouri in a 2 p.m. match in Columbia, Mo.

"We're looking pretty solid, and the girls are looking forward to playing the first match," he said. "I was pleased with the fall. They learned quite a bit as far as finishing off points and setting up points. They have improved physically and mentally since August."

Stevens was hired in August after serving as an assistant at North Carolina State. He took over a program that went 16-64 the past five years, including a 2-17 record last season.

Stevens will rely on primarily the same group of players from last year since he got such a late start on recruiting.

"When I got here, it was too late to bring in many players but I hope to bring in some new players in August," he said.

Returning players are senior Adrienne Bland, juniors Andrea Aldana and Kay Ehlke, and sophomores Daniela Garcia and Cassie Foster.

Senior Amanda Walker played for the Otahkians two years ago while freshman Christina Garcia and sophomore Julie Jarrel are first-year players.

To start the season, D. Garcia will play the No. 1 position, followed by Aldana, Foster, C. Garcia, Ehlke and Jarrel. The Garcias are sisters.

Southeast's first home match will be March 29 against Eastern Kentucky.