After a four-year absence, Cheryl Mershon returns as the head coach of the Shawnee State University Women’s Tennis Team. She takes over a team, which returns 5 players from a year ago and finished with a 3-3 record. "I am really excited to get back into coaching. The enthusiasm I’m seeing from the players is just great. We have been practicing since early January and have shown a great deal of improvement already," said Coach Mershon.

The #1 Doubles Team will consist of two new faces on the team. "Cara Dobbins is a veteran to the game who I expect to be a solid weapon this year," said Mershon. Dobbins will team with Becky Holden. Holden, an outstanding athlete, has lettered in soccer, softall, and basketball. She earned 1^st Team All-AMC honors this past basketball season and is a two-time NAIA All-Scholar Athlete. Holden replaces projected #1, Andrea Smalley, who is recovering from knee surgery, and will likely see action later in the year.

Returning players, Amanda Holbrook and Heather Van Pelt, will play #2 Doubles for the Bears. "They will be a very solid #2. They are extremely talented and have been playing very well together." Rounding out the doubles will be Courtney McManis and Doris Staler. McManis played #1 at Minford High School. Staler is also a member of the volleyball team. Her tennis action was limited last season due to a shoulder injury.

Stephanie Born and newcomer Jessica Cooper round out the team. Both will see significant action throughout the season.

"I can’t wait to start the season and I am really looking forward to building the tennis program here at Shawnee State. We have a very solid foundation upon which to build."