SIOUX FALLS, S.D. / MILWAUKEE, Wis. / SAINT PETER, Minn. — The Gustavus men's tennis team was the definition of depth on Sunday, splitting the team into three separate groups across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and South Dakota, finishing the day going 3-0 in all of the matches. One team of Gusties defeated Augustana 4-3 in South Dakota, while another gained an identical 4-3 victory over Cardinal Stritch in Wisconsin. Back home in Saint Peter, the Gusties hosted Saint John's for a MIAC matchup and sent the Johnnies home with a 9-0 loss.
"Today was really a special day from our entire team," said Head Coach Tommy Valentini. "To win three matches in three different locations against the quality of opponents we faced today took a tremendous effort. We relied on our depth, played very good doubles, and showed a ton of poise in the big moments.
"Our leaders were great in welcoming this challenge and everyone contributed to how well we competed. We're very thankful for all three results, and we'll use this performance to learn and grow moving forward into our spring trip."
Gustavus 4, Augustana 3
The Gusties took down the Vikings in South Dakota, claiming the doubles decision with wins in the No. 1 and No. 3 spot, and winning three of six singles competitions.
Gustavus 4, Cardinal Stritch 3
Against the Wolves, the Gusties came up big in the doubles, winning the crucial point that would help them edge Cardinal Stritch for the victory. The Wolves and the Gusties would split the singles competitions, making the doubles win all the more important.
Gustavus 9, Saint John's 0
The Gusties gained a 3-0 advantage in the doubles, including a nailbiter in the 3-spot, as
Luke Fridinger (Fy., Woodbury) and
Ali Derbani (Casablanca, Morocco) clinched an 8-7 victory as the final doubles pair. The Gusties carried their success to the singles to win the MIAC competition 9-0.
