GREENVILLE, N.C. - The men's tennis team looks to improve upon last season's 9-12 record as they begin their 2012 slate on the road against Norfolk State and East Carolina this Saturday and Sunday.  Head Coach #T.J. Greggs and Assistant Coach Scoville Jenkins# are confident that the 2012 season will be one of great strides for the program.

"There is a positive energy on the team right now," Jenkins commented.  "I really feel like the team has come together and is ready to compete.  This weekend is an opportunity for the hard work we have put in the last few months to pay off for these young men."

Leading the way for the Owls this year will be the lone senior on the squad, Simon Janik.  Janik rotated among the top two spots last year with junior Gianni Kubin.  Junior Gokalp Ozdemir finished last season with a 10-11 record, which is the tops amongst the returners, after spending most of last season in the No. 5 spot.

The newcomers for the Owls this year come in the form of four freshmen and a transfer.  Transfer junior Michael Browder will be looked upon to help lead the team, coming from NCAA Tournament participant Samford University.  In addition to Browder, the Owls have added freshmen Alex Toliver, Alexander Pena, Matthew Johnson, and Louis Theodor.  All are expected to see significant playing time this season.

"I think we have a solid mix of experience and young talent," coach Greggs indicated.  "I am confident in all of our players, and in their ability to fight for us.  We have a lot of passion this season, and I think we're going to do big things."

The Owls kick off their weekend with a Saturday matchup with Norfolk State at 11:00 a.m.  This will be the first meeting between the two programs.  Also new to the schedule is the host team, East Carolina University.  The Owls will finish the weekend by taking on ECU at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday.  All matches will be played at Courtside Athletic Club in Greenville, N.C.