Tennis Travels to Face Cincinnati & Dayton This Weekend

Eastern Michigan Eagles Tennis: Eyeing Undefeated Streak on the Road

The Eastern Michigan Eagles are soaring high, having started their 2024-25 season with two consecutive victories. Now, they’re gearing up for a challenging road trip this weekend, where they’ll face the formidable University of Cincinnati Bearcats and the University of Dayton Flyers.

With a 2-0 record, the Eagles are poised to achieve a 4-0 start for the first time since the 2002-2003 season. Though, a looming hurdle stands in their path: their road record. Eastern Michigan has historically struggled away from home, holding a 15-32 all-time record for season-opening road matches and losing the last three in a row.Their last victory in this scenario dates back to January 30, 2021, against Cleveland State.

This weekend presents a unique opportunity for the Eagles to not only continue their winning streak but also make a meaningful statement. A victory against Cincinnati, a member of the prestigious Big 12 Conference, would be a monumental achievement, marking their first win against a Power Four opponent since Febuary 6, 2004, when they defeated Big Ten powerhouse Michigan State 4-3.

Eastern Michigan’s 2024-25 roster boasts a diverse mix of returning athletes and exciting newcomers representing nine different countries. Head Coach Ryan Kucera, in his second year at the helm, emphasizes the team’s unwavering focus on securing back-to-back MAC Tournament appearances, a feat not accomplished since 2014 and 2015.

Strengthening the team’s support system, the coaching staff has welcomed valuable additions: graduate assistant coach Masha Polishchuk, a former MAC champion at Ball State University, and undergraduate assistant Andrew Dobbs.

to prepare for this critical road trip, the Eagles are diligently analyzing their upcoming opponents’ recent performances. Cincinnati, a member of the Big 12 Conference, started their season with a strong 7-0 victory against Eastern Kentucky at home but suffered a 6-1 loss at Indiana. Their recent history will certainly inform the Eagles’ strategy as they aim to secure these momentous wins.

Eastern Michigan Women’s tennis Ready to Face Dayton Flyers

The Eastern Michigan Eagles women’s tennis team is primed and ready for a big matchup against the Dayton Flyers. Building on a strong start to their season, the Eagles are looking to extend their winning streak against a familiar opponent.

Eastern Michigan holds a commanding 4-1 advantage in the all-time series against Dayton, including two consecutive victories. Their last encounter, a 5-2 win on april 3, 2022, showcased the contributions of freshmen Sabina Brichackova and Prerna Vichare.Brichackova secured a hard-fought victory at No. 3 singles, while Vichare, despite a loss in her singles match, played a crucial role in clinching the doubles point alongside Brichackova.

The Eagles are coming off a stunning season opener where they swept both matches against Ferris State. Their dominance was evident across both singles and doubles play. Viki Hazmukova emerged as a standout performer, claiming victories at both the No. 2 and No. 1 singles positions, highlighting her versatility and skill.

While Dayton enters the match with a 1-1 record, bouncing back from a 7-0 loss to Cleveland State with a convincing 6-1 victory over northern Kentucky, they won’t be an easy opponent.The Flyers’ resilience suggests they are capable of challenging Eastern Michigan.

This upcoming match promises to be a thrilling contest, pitting Eastern Michigan’s strong momentum against Dayton’s determination. Both teams will be vying for victory, adding another chapter to their storied rivalry.

Are the Eastern Michigan Eagles Tennis Team Poised for Back-to-Back MAC Tournament Appearances?

The Eastern Michigan University Eagles women’s tennis team is setting its sights on making waves in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) this season. With a prosperous 2023-24 campaign that saw them return to the MAC Tournament for the first time as 2018, the Eagles are carrying momentum into the new season.

Coach Ryan Kucera, in his second year leading the Eagles, has been instrumental in transforming the team’s performance. During the 2022-23 season, the team struggled in doubles play, securing the doubles point only four times in 15 dual matches. However, under Kucera’s guidance, the 2023-24 squad significantly improved, securing the doubles point 13 times in 23 dual matches, a remarkable increase to 56.5 percent.

This success in doubles has continued into the current season, with back-to-back wins in the doubles point against Ferris State.

“The goal every year is to win the MAC Tournament and earn a berth into the NCAA Tournament,” Coach Kucera has stated. The last time the Eagles achieved this feat was in 2001, when they dominated the MAC Tournament hosted by Marshall, defeating Ball State, western Michigan, and the host Thundering Herd to advance to the NCAA First Round.

The 2025 MAC preseason coaches’ poll placed the Eagles third behind Miami and Toledo, indicating their upward trajectory.

Eastern Michigan Eagles Soar High: A Trio of Rising Stars aim for NCAA Tournament

The Eastern Michigan University Eagles women’s tennis team is buzzing with excitement. After a successful 2023 season that saw them secure a fourth-place finish in the MAC conference and a berth in the MAC Tournament, the Eagles are looking to build on that momentum. A return to the tournament this year would mark the first back-to-back appearances as 2014 and 2015, a testament to the team’s growth under Coach Ryan Kucera.

Among the key players driving this success are a trio of talented athletes. Lara Diaz Zayas, a rookie, has quickly made her mark, clinching several crucial team victories with her steady performance on the court. Veteran prerna Vichare continues to dominate, showcasing her skill at both the No. 1 and No. 2 positions. This potent combination of fresh talent and established experience sets the stage for another successful season.

“We’re really excited about the upcoming season,” said Coach Kucera.”We have a great group of players, and they’re hungry to prove themselves on the national stage.”

The Eagles’ sights are set high—reaching the NCAA Tournament is a primary goal. Coach Kucera is confident that his team has the potential to make a deep run in the postseason.

The quest for that NCAA Tournament berth begins with challenges against fellow Michigan rivals. On February 1st, the Eagles face the Oakland University Golden Grizzlies at the Chippewa Club, followed by a trip to East Lansing on February 2nd to take on Michigan state University.

sabina Brichackova Achieves Historic Milestone

Senior Sabina Brichackova recently reached a remarkable milestone, becoming the first Eastern Michigan Eagle to achieve 100 career wins since 2017-18. This historic achievement came at the MAC Fall Individuals tournament in Hamilton,Ohio,where she secured her 99th and 100th victories.She joins the ranks of legendary EMU tennis stars like Ani Gogvadze (117 wins) and Andrea matrinovska (111 wins), who achieved similar milestones in the 2017-18 season.

Brichackova’s success isn’t solely an individual achievement. her doubles partnership with Prerna Vichare continues to shine brightly. They reached the finals of the inaugural MAC Fall Individuals tournament, finishing as runners-up. this stellar performance further solidified their status as a formidable duo.

“Sabina and Prerna’s doubles partnership has been a real asset to our team,” said Coach Kucera. “They are a joy to watch.”

Both Brichackova and Vichare are on track to climb the all-time top 20 in doubles wins. Currently, Miriam Westerink (2008-12) and Avi Gogvadze (2014-18) occupy the 19th spot with 56 wins. With seven wins needed for Brichackova and eight for Vichare, they are poised to join this exclusive group.

To stay updated on the eastern Michigan Eagles women’s tennis team, follow them on X (formerly Twitter) at @EMUEaglesTennis and on Instagram at @EMU_Tennis.

Eastern Michigan Eagles: on the Rise

Eastern Michigan University’s men’s tennis team has enjoyed a remarkable surge in performance, culminating in a coveted MAC Tournament berth last season. Coach Kucera, in his inaugural year at the helm, led the Eagles to new heights, instilling a winning spirit and strategic foundation that promises continued success.

“It’s been truly rewarding to witness the team’s growth,” Coach Kucera stated, reflecting on the past season. “We focused on building a stronger foundation, both technically and mentally. Emphasizing a positive team culture, fostering accountability, and sharpening our doubles game were crucial aspects. Seeing these efforts translate onto the court with consistent wins was incredibly satisfying.”

One of the most notable transformations under Coach Kucera’s guidance was the Eagles’ dominance in doubles matches. “Last season,the doubles point eluded us in many matches,” Coach Kucera explained. “We dedicated ample time to strengthening our doubles pairings, refining strategies, and bolstering interaction.The advancement there was noticeable. Winning the doubles point consistently gave us an edge and really boosted our overall confidence.”

Looking ahead, Coach Kucera’s ambition for the program is clear. “Our ambitions are high! We aim for back-to-back appearances in the MAC tournament, and ultimately, vying for a championship. We’re building toward consistent competitiveness year after year, establishing Eastern Michigan as a force to be reckoned with in the MAC.That takes dedication, hard work, and a collective belief in our abilities. These players are driven, talented, and hungry, and I have there’s no doubt whatsoever whatsoever that we’re capable of achieving great things.”

How has Coach Kucera’s leadership impacted the culture and development of the Eastern Michigan Eagles men’s tennis team?

Eastern Michigan Eagles Tennis: On the Rise – An interview with Coach Ryan Kucera

Eastern Michigan University’s men’s tennis team has made notable strides under the leadership of Coach Ryan Kucera. We caught up with Coach Kucera to discuss the team’s recent successes, the challenges ahead, and his vision for the future.

Archyde: Coach, last season marked a meaningful turnaround for the Eagles, culminating in a well-deserved MAC Tournament berth. Looking back, what were some key factors that contributed to this breakthrough?

Coach Kucera: It’s been truly rewarding to witness the team’s growth. We focused on building a stronger foundation,both technically and mentally. Emphasizing a positive team culture, fostering accountability, and sharpening our doubles game were crucial aspects. Seeing these efforts translate onto the court with consistent wins was incredibly satisfying.

Archyde: You mentioned doubles. It seemed to be a game-changer for the Eagles last season. Was there a particular strategy or emphasis you placed on doubles play?

Coach Kucera: Last season, the doubles point often eluded us. We dedicated ample time to strengthening our doubles pairings,refining strategies,and bolstering interaction. The advancement there was noticeable.Winning the doubles point consistently gave us an edge and really boosted our overall confidence.

Archyde: Looking ahead, what are your goals for this season, and what challenges do you anticipate facing?

coach Kucera: Our ambitions are high! We aim for back-to-back appearances in the MAC tournament, and ultimately, vying for a championship. we’re building toward consistent competitiveness year after year, establishing Eastern Michigan as a force to be reckoned with in the MAC. That takes dedication, hard work, and a collective belief in our abilities.These players are driven, talented, and hungry, and I have no doubt whatsoever that we’re capable of achieving great things.

Archyde: What advice would you give to aspiring student-athletes who dream of competing at the collegiate level?

Coach Kucera: Dedicate yourself fully to the sport. Push yourself beyond your comfort zone, embrace challenges, and learn from every experience, both victories and setbacks. Remember, college tennis is about teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. Find a coach and a program that aligns with your values and goals. Most importantly, enjoy the journey!

Let me know if you’d like to explore othre aspects of the Eastern Michigan Eagles tennis program!