Grand Rapids, Mich. – With postseason stakes on the line and their WHAC Tournament path hanging in the balance, the Aquinas men's tennis team stepped into its final regular season matches ready for a fight. First, the Saints hit the road for a Thursday tilt against powerhouse Lawrence Tech, then returned home Saturday for an emotional Senior Day clash with top-ranked UNOH. While the scoreboard didn't tip in their favor, the experience, effort, and heart displayed set the stage for an intriguing playoff rematch.
Lawrence Tech 7, Aquinas 0
The Saints hit the road on Thursday, April 17, for a midday duel against Lawrence Tech at the Franklin Athletic Club in Southfield, Michigan. Despite showing grit and effort across the board, Aquinas was unable to upend the Blue Devils, falling 7-0 in conference action.
Senior Tom Gangov led the way at No. 1 singles and delivered a highlight performance, pushing LTU's Evan Morgan to the edge in a thrilling second set. Gangov dropped the opener 3-6 but battled to a dramatic tiebreaker before falling 6-7 (11-13) in one of the day's most competitive matches.
The remainder of the singles lineup ran into a hot-handed Lawrence Tech squad. Nick Lourido, Dominic Maslanka, Carlota Arzabe, Dominick Marinelli, and Josh Chlebek were each defeated in straight sets, as the Blue Devils showcased their depth and consistency.
In doubles play, the duo of Gangov and Marinelli put up a strong fight at No. 1 but came up short in a tight 4-6 decision. Arzabe and Chlebek fell 0-6 on court two, while Lourido and Maslanka were also blanked at the No. 3 position.
Despite the loss, the Saints quickly turned the page to prepare for their regular-season finale at home.
Results vs Lawrence Tech
Coach's Comments:
Head Coach Kerri Orders shared her thoughts following the match:
"Lawrence Tech came out strong and proved to be tough competition, but our AQ players rose to the challenge and fought hard. The scoreboard doesn't show the heart, hustle, and teamwork that our team showed in this match. This match helped to prepare us as we look ahead to our final regular season match on Saturday, April 19th at 2:30 p.m., when we host UNOH at MVP Sportsplex."
UNOH 6, Aquinas 1
On Saturday, April 19, the Saints returned to the courts at MVP Sportsplex to host WHAC leader University of Northwestern Ohio. Facing one of the conference's top teams, Aquinas put forth a determined effort but ultimately fell 6-1 in the final match of the regular season.
Freshman Josh Chlebek provided the lone victory for AQ at No. 6 singles. Chlebek was in control of his match when his opponent, Jacob Ramirez, was forced to retire due to illness, giving Aquinas a hard-earned point.
At the top of the lineup, senior Tom Gangov once again showcased his toughness, taking Lucas Perez the distance in a three-set battle. After splitting the first two sets, Gangov narrowly lost the super tiebreaker, 6-4, 1-6, (7-10).
Nick Lourido started strong at No. 2 singles but had to retire mid-match due to injury. Meanwhile, Dominic Maslanka, Carlota Arzabe, and Dominick Marinelli all fought hard but fell in straight sets against a deep and talented Racer squad.
In doubles play, the Racers swept all three courts to claim the doubles point. Gangov and Marinelli teamed up at No. 1 but dropped their match 2-6. Lourido and Maslanka were defeated 0-6 at No. 2, while Arzabe and Chlebek fell 1-6 at No. 3. Despite the setbacks, the Saints demonstrated resilience and teamwork throughout the afternoon.
With the regular season now complete, Aquinas turns its attention to the postseason—where they'll get a quick rematch against UNOH with everything on the line.
Results vs UNOH
Coach's Comments:
Head Coach Kerri Orders reflected on the emotion of Senior Day and the team's growth:
"Our final regular season match for the program was both meaningful and emotional for the AQ men's tennis team. UNOH came out strong, but our players played with intensity and determination. I am really impressed by the camaraderie, team spirit, and individual development of each of our players during this spring season. We're excited for the opportunity to compete one last time in a rematch against #1 UNOH in the WHAC Conference Championship on Tuesday, April 22 at 2:30 p.m. in Lima, Ohio."
Up Next:
Aquinas shifts into postseason play, heading to Lima, Ohio, for the opening round of the WHAC Conference Tournament on Tuesday, April 22. In a dramatic twist, the Saints will once again face top-seeded UNOH. With the experience of a recent matchup fresh in their minds, the Saints aim to make key adjustments and bring a competitive edge as they fight to extend their season and earn a spot in the WHAC Championship.
