As the fall season unfolds, the Sacred Heart University (SHU) men’s tennis team had their first match last Friday. Their sights are set on tournaments this upcoming fall and dual matches scheduled for January, while also carrying the momentum from last season when they reached the Northeast Conference (NEC) semifinals.
In a challenging encounter against the United States Military Academy (Army), the SHU men’s tennis team fell short of victory this past Friday with a final score of 4-3.
Head coach Mike Guastelle laid out his objectives for the initial games. “For the freshmen, it’s about seeing where they fit in competitively,” said Guastelle.
Guastelle’s approach underscores the importance of evaluating the team’s development and integrating experienced upperclassmen with the four promising newcomers. “I think all four guys are a good fit with our players,” said Guastelle. “It’s going to be pretty competitive amongst them for who’s going to be starters.”
Guastelle has strong expectations for his team. “I think the goal for them is to play on that championship Sunday and, you know, win it,” said Guastelle.
Sophomore Arya Alla reflected on his freshman experience with the team, shedding light on the competitive atmosphere. “My outlook on it was I’m going to come in here every day and work my tail off. Give it my all not just for myself but for all the guys around me,” said Alla. Alla was named to the NEC All-Rookie team last season, earning himself a spot in the starting lineup.
Another one of the team’s starters will be senior Lefteri Apostolou, who was All NEC-First Team in singles and All NEC-Second Team in doubles last season. “Reflecting on last year, we welcomed some great guys to the team who greatly helped us both on and off the court to get where we did,” said Apostolou. “I think we grew closer as a team and became more like a family, which was key to our achievements last year.” Apostolou continued, “I hope I can stay competitive and healthy throughout the season, and I’m looking forward to having some good results that will hopefully contribute to the team.”
Sophomore, Arya Alla
Instagram, @sacredhearttennis
Senior, Lefteri Apostolou
Instagram, @sacredhearttennis
As a senior, this will be Apostolou’s final season with the Pioneers. “I look forward to creating more great memories with this team one last time. I really just want to do as much as I can to give back and help the team achieve the success it deserves,” said Apostolou.
The Pioneers are set to take on their crosstown rivals, the Fairfield University Stags, at the Fairfield Invitational next weekend, Sept. 22- Sept. 24.
Sacred Heart Athletics contributed to this article.
