Unique Weekend For Melanie Yates In Minneapolis
9/20/2013 12:00:00 AM | Women's Tennis
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - For sophomore Melanie Yates, the first weekend for the Gonzaga University women's tennis team is more than just a fall tournament to shake out the rust. Instead, it's a unique opportunity to play back in her home state.
"I am so excited to have my teammates over to my house where they can see where I grew up and have a home cooked meal," Yates smiled. "This is a great tournament to both see my friends and family, but also show how hard our team has worked. The past several weeks have been difficult, not only getting used to school again but getting used to the 20-hours of tennis and conditioning a week we commit to as athletes."
The weekend will not be all fun and games however. Yates, much like the five other Zags in the field, will have a grueling test each match at the University of Minnesota Gopher Invitational. Yates will participate in the Maroon flight for singles matches and opens against Maria Paula Ribero of Eastern Michigan University.
In doubles action, Yates will team with Katie Edwards and the duo will play in the Gold flight.
Even with the challenging field, the opportunity to entertain her team and represent Gonzaga will make for a special weekend.
"Melanie worked very hard all summer to prepare for the fall and she is thrilled," head coach D.J. Gurule said. "Having been born and raised in Minnesota and training at the University of Minnesota's Baseline Center, we are excited for Melanie to play in front of her family and friends. The Yates family has been supportive of our program and we are very thankful for their hospitality."
Yates was a bright spot for a young Bulldogs squad a year ago. During the spring championship season she maintained a winning singles record of 7-5. In doubles she paired with Samantha Polayes and together they had a 7-6 mark playing in the No. 2 position.
With no newcomers on the roster and the departure of three seniors, Yates figures to play a larger role throughout the season. Things just worked out that she has the chance to show her improvements from her rookie season in front of family in attendance.
"We know Mel is so excited to come back and play with her Zags on the courts she's called home for seven years," said Melanie's parents Mike and Lori.
"I have the great opportunity to bring my Bulldogs tennis team to the Land of 10,000 lakes," Yates said. "As a team, we have been working hard both on and off the court, and I am so excited to see the progress we have made individually and as a team. This first tournament will hopefully give us a glimpse of the success we will have in the future."
Gonzaga will compete in the UM Gopher Invite all weekend long.
