By Josh Sadlock ’12

The Lafayette Men’s and Women’s Tennis Teams seasons were off to a slow start. Both teams spent the winter months shaking off the rust playing in several dual matches before the bulk of Patriot League play begins.

The men currently sit at 2-4, while the women sit 0-2.

League play is already underway for the men. They split a pair of matches at West Point on February 26, defeating Holy Cross and falling to Army. Doug Gallagher ‘12 has led the Leopards at number one singles. Brandon Goldstein ‘15 has been a bright spot at number two singles and has played a key role in the doubles lineup.

Goldstein is eagerly awaiting the remainder of the season. “This year we have a good team that matches up well against many of the Patriot League teams,” he said, “Every guy on the team is a strong competitor that is capable of winning every singles match they play, so I think we will have a good chance to do well.”

A key lineup change may help the Leopards going forward. The top doubles pair of Gallagher and Andrew Morris ‘12 will split up. Gallagher will now pair with Goldstein, while Morris will play with Will Mercorella ‘14.

The women’s squad has fallen to NJIT and Fairfield in the early goings-on this season. Katherine Charchalis ‘12 picked up the first individual victory for the team, winning her match at number six singles against NJIT.

After a brief layoff, both squads return to action this week. The Leopards will travel to Newark, Del. to take on the Blue Hens of Delaware this Thursday. On Saturday, they face Wagner at home.