The men and women of Simpson College Tennis are striving to reach their potential this fall. The all-around outlook of the season has been positive.

“I’m happy with our progress,” Men’s Head Coach Bob Nutgrass said. “We’re gaining ground each time out.”

Women’s Head Coach Pat Heller has a similar perspective on his team.

“The season is going better than expected,” he said. “The team has responded well to harder practices and competition this year.”

Senior Jen Gibson shares Heller’s confidence in the team.

“This year we’re having really hard workouts at practice,” she said. “The strengthening and conditioning is going to make a big difference.”

Goals for both teams this season reflect a realistic approach to their hard work. Nutgrass has set a team goal to finish in the top four of the conference.

“We’re trying to shoot for a .750 [winning percentage],” Nutgrass said.

The women’s goal and mindset is similar to the men’s.

“I would like to see this team finish in the top four at Conference,” Heller said.

Gibson agrees with Heller from a player’s point of view.

“Our goal is to finish top of the conference,” Gibson said. “I think we have a good shot this year at coming in third.”

With similar goals in mind, both tennis programs are creating a beneficial atmosphere.

“Team unity has been good,” Nutgrass said. “The older are helping the younger.”

Gibson says the same of the women’s team.

“Our team bonding is really good this year,” she said. “We care about how the whole team does as one.”