WINONA LAKE, Ind. – The Grace men's tennis team is hoping to lean on experience in the lineup this season. Eight members return from last year's squad, led by two seniors, bringing eagerness to head coach Larry Schuh.

"I am very excited about this year because we had several starters a year ago who were freshmen. This year, they will have some experience under their belt, and I look forward to those players taking a big step forward," Schuh said.

Schuh believes the men can finish higher up in the league after ending in fifth place a year ago. "It's a realistic goal to finish in the top third. If we improve significantly, we have a chance to win the conference."

Mental toughness is a big focus for the team, and stems from last season's motto. In order to reach their highest potential, the Lancers need all players to step up.

Senior Danila Kurkulin begins his final campaign for Grace after finishing with a 7-2 singles and 6-3 doubles record last year. Teammate and fellow senior Uros Pajic looks to improve this season after concluding the 2016-17 season with a singles record of 5-4 and doubles mark of 7-2. Both players were named to the last year's All-League team.

Other returners to Grace's squad include juniors Conner Bates, Adam Yoder and Caleb Yoder as well as sophomore twins Arturo and Lucas Fonseca.

The Lancers add four newcomers to the squad: Noah Haupt, Craig Manges, Nathan Strudthoff and Diego Zamora. Following the team's recipe of newcomers in the lineup last year, Schuh wants the rookies to fight for a starting spot. "It would be awesome if all four challenge the current starters." 

Grace begins their conquest to the Crossroads League title with a match at Miller Field on Aug. 24 against Crossroads League foe Huntington.