Trio of losses but twinkle of highlights

UW-Whitewater's tennis programs, both men's and women's, have earned a reputation as some of the top-performing teams in the nation under the guidance of head coach Frank Barnes. The women's team, in particular, has dominated the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) with an impressive streak of 17 consecutive tournament wins and an unbeaten record in conference matches since October 2006.

However, even the most successful teams encounter setbacks. During the Midwest Invitational tournament held at Nielsen Tennis Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin, on April 6, 2024, UW-Whitewater's Warhawks experienced a series of losses, leaving them winless for the event.

The tournament began on Friday, April 5, with the Warhawks facing stiff competition from various colleges and universities across the Midwest region. The women's team, led by sophomore Gracie Ha as the No. 2 singles player, put up a valiant effort against North Central College but ultimately came up short, losing their matches. The men's team also faced defeats against their opponents, resulting in a disappointing start to the tournament for both teams.

Despite these setbacks, it's important to note that the Midwest Invitational is just one tournament in the season, and the Warhawks' overall record remains strong. The team's resilience and determination to improve will undoubtedly be on display as they continue to compete in upcoming matches and tournaments.

The Warhawks' success under Coach Barnes is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the effective coaching strategies implemented by their leader. The team's unwavering commitment to excellence has earned them numerous accolades, including conference championships, individual awards, and national recognition.

In summary, while UW-Whitewater's tennis teams experienced losses during the Midwest Invitational tournament, their overall record remains impressive, and their determination to succeed will continue to drive them forward as they compete in future matches and events.