Coming off the SWAC title in 2010 you can be assured that complacency is not a concern of the PVAMU Men’s tennis team.
After speaking with Coach John Cochran the men’s & women’s tennis head coach there is a good vibe and lots of optimism going for both the men & women’s teams.
Cochran says the men’s team is ready to defend its SWAC title and the women are competing for a title themselves.
One of the main things Cochran was proud about was both the men’s and women’s team’s performance in the HBCU National Championships in Atlanta,Ga.
The HBCU championships were a huge test for both squads and Cochran believes both his teams stepped up to the challenge.
“This was the first time going to Atlanta and bringing home some trophies”, said Cochran. Sophomore Ronald Chidzikwe reached the semifinals of the B-pool draw. Sophomore Jimmy Yates reached the quarterfinals in the men’s C pool. As a team the men finished in a tie for third place.
The women’s team finished fifth and just two points behind conference foe Alcorn State, who finished third.
Coach Cochran was very pleased that transfer Raven Lewis made the finals, and believes she has a bright future in Pantherland.
“Not only did she make the finals in her first tournament as a Panther but she’s good on the academic side too!”
Cochran was excited about another newcomer on the men’s side. Freshman Stanley Breland, a four star recruit from Las Vegas, Nev. is sure to bring a spark to the team.
Cochran is looking forward to getting Breland on the court so he can improve on what Cochran calls a really good squad.
Cochran says both the men and women’s teams are focused on a SWAC title.
“Last year the women were close and this year there’s good chemistry and comaraderie, there’s a real good shot at challenging Southern for the title.”
For the men there is a lot of optimism from both Cochran and the players as well.
“There’s a good buzz around this men’s squad, We have to get better team chemistry but there’s a good chance to repeat.”
Cochran said the student body can expect a hungry team for both men and women.
“All they’re thinking about is getting that ring!”
The men’s team has another big test coming up in the USTA/ITA Regional Championships in College Station October 23-26.
All of the good programs in the state of Texas will be there so it will be a good measuring stick for the Panthers.
The women will be faced with a tough challenge in the University of Houston Invitational on November 5-7.
From talking with Cochran Panther fans can expect a successful season on the horizon.