The Elon University men’s tennis team won its home opener on Friday afternoon defeating The University of North Carolina at Asheville Bulldogs 5-2.
The Phoenix got off to a fast start winning the first two doubles matches to take the early 1-0 lead. Senior Cameron Silverman and junior Stefan Fortmann defeated sophomores Alex Croker and Brett Landau at No. 1 singles. Juniors Brian Kowalski and Jordan Kaufman clinched the doubles point for the Phoenix by defeating junior John Schubel and sophomore Daniel Kripak.
Elon continued its strong form into the singles portion of the contest. The Phoenix took the first three singles matches to clinch the victory. Junior Juan Madrid was the first to win defeating Schubel 6-2, 6-2 at no. 5 singles. Minutes later, Silverman made quick work of Kripak at No. 1 singles winning 6-1, 6-2. Kaufman then wrapped up the win for the Phoenix taking down Landau in straight sets 6-2, 6-2.
With the victory already decided, the remaining three singles matches were also played to their completion. Elon freshman Chris Humphreys lost at No. 6 singles to freshman Josh Swindler 6-2, 6-5 (8-6). Fortmann got the Phoenix back to its winning ways by defeating Croker at No. 3 singles 6-4, 6-4. Kowalski was the last to finish his match, as the junior fell to sophomore Thomas Panoulas in straight sets 6-4, 6-3.
Their scheduled Saturday match against Norfolk State University already cancelled, the Phoenix will not return to the court until Wednesday, Feb. 12 when they take on Campbell University at the Jimmy Powell Tennis Center.