Love 15: Advantage Vanguard

Jordan Ballard
The men’s and women’s tennis teams have been victorious for the majority of this season. The men are currently ranked sixth in the nation, at 5-3 (GSAC 3-3). The women’s side is currently ranked tenth in the nation and stands at 3-4 (GSAC 3-3). With hopes of becoming national champions, the teams are working hard to reach their goal.
In this predominantly individual sport, most of VU’s teams are made up of mostly international students.

The Lions’ tennis teams consist of students from all over the map, with countries ranging from Brazil to Germany, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, and Ukraine. Only three players hail from the United States. Coming from so many different cultures and societies, the shift to Vanguard and American life can occasionally be challenging.
“The college team is different for me. I’ve never played something like it,” freshman Sandro Bucher from Switzerland said.
Vanguard alumnus, Swedish national, and head coach, Mattias Johansson explained the difficulties of the switch for his athletes.
“It obviously depends on the individual. Most of them are settling pretty well and adjusting to American culture. It’s a little bit of an adjustment,” Johansson said. “[But] I have very few people who don’t come back for a second season, so that is a credit to VU and the community,”
Due to the fact many of the team members are from other countries, it is crucial for the Vanguard community to assist in the retention of each player.
“I’ve met some interesting people here. I had some doubts after my first year, but overall it has been a great experience,” junior Florian Lemeke from Germany said.
In regards to discovering or recruiting international players, Coach Johansson describes how relatively easy it is to find new players.
“I find them [recruits] a lot of times by referrals. Players refer their friends because they like it here,” Johansson said.
The teams this year are anticipated to do well and carry on their victorious season. The men’s team has shown excellent leadership and determination in their goal of winning the National Championship.
“We have very high goals actually. Stay healthy and get everyone on the team…get very far in the national tournament and compete with other teams in the nation,” said Lemeke.
Each team has also demonstrated great dynamics despite their different backgrounds.
“I feel a really strong bond this year and I think the guys are going to do great,” Coach Johansson said, continuing, “For the girls, they are younger. A lot of them are newcomers. It will take some time to establish that leadership.”
The teams hold their home matches within walking distance from VU at Tewinkle Park. The VU community has a chance to attend games for free, and cheer our teams on to victory—all while getting a tan.
The next home game for is scheduled for this Saturday, Mar. 14. The women begin at noon with the men to follow at 2:00. Both will be challenging the nationally ranked Westmont in a GSAC match.