Netters continue SEC homestand

FAYETTEVILLE—For the second weekend in a row, the University of Arkansas women’s tennis team hosts two Southeastern Conference matches beginning Friday, March 11, against the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers at the Dills Indoor Tennis Center at 5:00 p.m. “We are looking forward to hosting two premier SEC teams this weekend,” said head coach Michael Hegarty. “We are very encouraged by the progression we have made so far this season.” The Lady Razorbacks enter the dual match with a record of 10-2 overall and 0-2 in the SEC, while the Lady Vols come to Fayetteville boasting a 7-3 record in 2005 with one win and one loss in SEC play. Junior transfer Vlatka Jovanovic earned her first career national ranking this week by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association. Her consistent play at line one for the Lady’Backs has helped her tally an 8-4 record so far this spring, which included a 6-1, 6-2 win against once-ranked Jenny Langer of SMU. The Zagreb, Croatia native is currently ranked 78th, one slot ahead of teammate Maryori Franco, who now sits at No. 79. Arkansas doubles continues to play a big role as the Lady’Backs enter conference play. The Lady Razorbacks have controlled doubles up to this point of the 2005 season, winning the point in eight of 12 matches. Moreover, the Lady’Backs are 7-1 after capturing the doubles point. The Lady Vols are led by junior Sabita Maharaj. Last weekend, Maharaj upset No. 6 Robin Stephenson, 0-6, 6-4, 7-5, in a 3-4 losing effort against Alabama. Maharaj is currently ranked 44th in the country and could face Jovanovic on court one on Friday. “The indoor environment of Friday’s match will play a key role paralleling with the level of competition that Tennessee always brings to the court,” Hegarty added. After Friday’s match, the Lady’Backs are back in action again on Sunday, March 13, this time against the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs at 1:00 p.m. Admission is free for both matches. Live stats are available at ladybacks.com by following the stats link. For more information on Arkansas tennis or any other Lady Razorback sport, please visit www.ladybacks.com.