Heading into the dual-match portion of the men’s tennis
season, Michigan coach Mark Mees expects big things from this
year’s squad. However, Mees’ expectations don’t
just apply to action on the tennis court. Since his appointment as
head coach five seasons ago, Mees has produced 11 U-M Athletic
Achievement Awards and eight Academic All-Big Ten distinctions.
This is no easy task considering the Wolverines practice
two-and-a-half hours every weekday, have matches on weekends and
lift weights two times a week. It takes a special person to handle
both the academic and athletic rigors of the University.

“We have something unique here at Michigan with our
tremendous academic and athletic programs,” Mees said.
“Not many schools in the country are like us, and we want not
only talented tennis players, but also people who will take
advantage of the academic opportunities U-M has to
offer.”

Mees and the rest of the Wolverines will look for leadership
from the team’s co-captains, junior Michael Rubin (preseason
No. 6 in regional rankings of the Intercollegiate Tennis
Association) and senior Anthony Jackson, who compete at No. 1 and
No. 2 singles, respectively.

“We are really looking for Michael and Anthony to lead our
younger guys,” Mees said. “No matter who we play, we
will always have a good chance at winning first and second singles
(with Rubin and Jackson). But I am also confident that they can
lead our younger guys to victories, as well.”

Rubin and Jackson have also received a preseason regional
ranking of No. 15 as doubles partners by the ITA.

The Wolverines’ opponents should be cautious if they plan
on taking this young squad lightly. Freshman Brian Hung is ranked
21st in the ITA rankings of the singles division, and two other
freshmen, Ryan Heller and Steve Peretz, are poised to make major
contributions.

“Our freshmen are going to get the opportunity to
contribute right away,” Mees said. “They’ve
gotten their feet on the ground, and everyone has been improving.
With the fun part of the season about to get underway, I’m
excited to see what happens.”

The Wolverines kick off the dual- match season Saturday morning
at the Varsity Tennis Center against Western Michigan.