West Central Reporter

The Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) has announced its preseason rankings for the upcoming tennis season, placing Western Illinois University in third place among eight teams. This year marks the inclusion of Bryant as a new team in the conference. Western Illinois secured 26 points and received one first-place vote.

Western Illinois' Richardlyne Francois has been highlighted as a singles player to watch. Francois began her tenure at WIU with two singles victories at the Cougar Open during the fall season. She went on to win the singles No. 4 flight title at the OVC Individual Tournament, showcasing strong performances throughout the rounds, culminating in a decisive 6-4, 6-0 victory in the final match. Her accomplishments extend to doubles play, where she also secured a win.

In doubles competition, Chloe Routier and Nour Gueblaoui have been named players to watch. Routier had an impressive debut at the Cougar Open with two singles victories and continued her success by winning WIU's third title at the OVC Individual Tournament. Her performance earned her qualification for the International Tennis Association Conference Masters Championships.

Gueblaoui, who had a notable junior year, played a key role in WIU's success by securing wins alongside Lara Rossetto Diniz de Souza as part of their No. 1 doubles team. Gueblaoui and Routier also claimed their first doubles win together towards the end of the fall season.

Western Illinois is set to begin its season on January 25th against IU Indy.

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