Kost and Swinnen Fall Short in Tulsa
TULSA, Okla. ? The Oregon men’s tennis finished its season today, losing both first round matches at the NCAA Individual Championships. Sven Swinnen and Manuel Kost were both defeated in straight sets.
No. 16-ranked Swinnen, seeded No. 9-16, was upset by No. 44-ranked William Barker of Rice, 6-2, 6-1. The Switzerland native ends the season 22-9.
The unseeded Kost was defeated by Virginia’s No. 9-ranked Doug Stewart, 6-2, 6-3. Kost, ranked No. 66, finishes the season 18-11.
"We obviously would of liked to of had a better showing, but the experience for both players will pay dividends," Oregon head coach Chris Russell said. "It will help us for the future that both of these guys had successful years and took part in such a high-level of tennis."
Despite the losses, it marked the first time in program history two Oregon players received bids to the tournament. Looking ahead to next year, the Ducks return both Kost and Swinnen, along with three other players who played significant roles. Oregon will return 94 of its 98 singles wins from this season.
NCAA Individual Championships
Tulsa, Okla.
May 26
First Round (seed)
William Barker (RU) def. (9-16) Sven Swinnen (UO) 6-2, 6-1
(9-16) Doug Stewart (UVA) def. Manuel Kost (UO) 6-2, 6-3
