Lady'Backs begin ITA Central Regional this week

FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas hopes to repeat last year’s strong showing at the 2006 ITA Central Regional Championships starting on Wednesday, Oct. 18.

Qualifying rounds begin Tuesday at the Tulsa University tennis courts, and Lady Razorback head coach Michael Hegarty is optimistic about this team’s chances at the week-long event.

"We have had a strong fall so far, and have gotten in our share of quality matches," Hegarty said.

Last season, sophomore Ela Kaluder rolled through the ITA regional hosted by Brigham Young to reach the national tournament, advancing to the round of 16 at the ITA Nationals. Kaluder enters this year’s event as Arkansas’ top singles player this fall.

Three Lady’Backs compete in the qualifying rounds, freshmen Melissa Hoffmeister and Carly Dixon and sophomore Nanar Airapetian in the draw.