The UW-Whitewater men’s tennis team kicked off their 2024 season in dominant fashion, securing a first-place finish at the Warhawk Fall Invite. The Warhawks showcased their depth and talent by winning all three doubles flights and sending players to the finals in all six singles brackets. This stellar start has set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season for the defending WIAC champions.
“We won all three doubles, and we have the finals of all six singles,” Barnes said. “We’re waiting to see how they turn out but so far so good. We were missing our number one player, Reuben Giorgio, who didn’t play singles because he’s sick, but he won the doubles with Theo [Billson]. It was cool yesterday and everyone else is healthy. Last year we had a lot of injuries, so it’s nice to see everyone competing.”
Barnes praised the team’s resilience, particularly as they head into a busy fall schedule.
“This tournament is great,” Barnes said. “A lot of guys have been working hard all summer, so coming in and getting the job done with match results is fantastic.”
The ultimate goal remains clear for Barnes: a WIAC championship and a run through the NCAA tournament.
“[A conference championship] includes the Wisconsin schools on the West side, and then we’d play the winner of the New Jersey side, which usually is the College of New Jersey,” Barnes said. “The last several times we’ve played them it’s been really close. It’ll be at their place this year, and it’s always a fun match.”
Barnes also highlighted the importance of team chemistry, noting that this year’s squad feels more cohesive, particularly after several key transfers last season have now finally settled in.
“Last season’s chemistry was really good, but this year, there’s a sort of comfort level,” Barnes said. “We had five new impact players last year, and now, they know what to expect. They’re all chomping at the bit to improve on last year.”
Leading the way for the Warhawks this season is sophomore Theo Billson. Billson, who sat out much of last season due to knee surgery, was a key contributor in doubles and singles. Billson, who was teamed up with Reuben Giorgio in doubles play, cruised to the championship match where they defeated Division II Lewis University.
“Offseason training went really well,” Billson said. “I was here over the summer working at the tennis camps, and it was really nice to have some of my other high level teammates here playing. I think we all got better because of it.”
Billson’s personal goals for the season reflect his ambition to make up for lost time.
“I want to make a far run in the ITA in singles and doubles,” Billson said. “I didn’t get to play last season because of my knee surgery, so it would be nice to go far this season.”
Although the Warhawks had a strong showing at the Warhawk Fall Invite, Billson acknowledged there’s still plenty of room for improvement.
“I think bringing more energy at the start of a match,” Billson said. “I was a little bit laid back, especially from the warm-up. Tennis matches are long, and I need to stay focused and let the match roll on.”
Coach Barnes echoed similar sentiments, pointing out areas for growth as the season progresses.
“We expected to be the top team here based on rankings, but seeing everyone make it to the finals was impressive,” Barnes said. “There’s always room for improvement, and we’re working on playing percentage tennis instead of flashy tennis.”
As the team prepares for their next challenge, a scrimmage against Carthage and the highly anticipated ITA regional later in the month, coach Barnes and his team are staying focused on building momentum going into the spring season.
“We want to hit our stride in the fall so we’re ready for conference,” Barnes said. “It’s a long process, but we’re on the right track.”
With a deep and talented roster led by experienced players like Billson, the Warhawks are poised to make a serious run at another conference title and beyond. The season may have just begun, but expectations are sky-high for this UW-Whitewater team.
