Tennis

Coach Chris Leicht focuses on Monmouth University next big goals

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The Monmouth University Head Men’s Tennis Coach Chris Leicht has kindly granted an interview for Tennis World USA, in which he analyzed the Hawks’ excellent start to the season. Leicht talked about the goals that Monmouth is pursuing for the spring, focusing on the most important aspects that lead to building a winning team.

Leicht was named the head coach of the Monmouth University men’s tennis program on August 17, 2018. He came to Monmouth from Wilkes University in Pennsylvania, where he served as head coach for both the men’s and women’s programs for 16 seasons. (Here you can read his full bio).

How do you rate the Hawks’ first part of the season?

“We are off to a great start! Currently, we are 10-2 and ranked #70 in the country. This is just the second time in school history that we have been ranked nationally. We have won three consecutive matches against really strong teams and we are now preparing for our upcoming outdoor season and the CAA Tournament.”

What are the men’s team ambitions for the spring?

“We have a lot of very high team goals. We want to win the CAA Championship and advance to the NCAA Tournament. Also, we want to be ranked nationally and regionally. Finally, we want to achieve great success off the court and take care of our academic responsibilities in the classroom and be a strong representation of Monmouth University in the community.”

Who are the tennis players who surprised you the most in the first two months of 2024?

“We have six new players this spring who all have been major contributors to our team’s success. Mateo Bivol has stepped into the top spot and been amazing, including clinching the match over nationally ranked William & Mary. Also, Adam Hillerby is undefeated with a perfect record this year. We have also had big contributions from freshman Gabe Berner and sophomore transfer Alex Martinez Sanz.”

In your opinion, what are the aspects on which the men’s team needs to improve, to better approach the outdoor part of the season?

“Because tennis is such an individual sport, we have both individual and team areas that we need to keep improving to finish strong. We have been really focusing on the mental part of the sport, which has helped us win many close matches recently. Also, we will be working hard on adjusting to outdoor tennis in the next few weeks.”

What is the most difficult part of coaching a group of student-athletes? And at the same time, what is the most rewarding part?

“I wouldn’t say there is a very difficult part of my job. I am very fortunate to be the Head Men’s Tennis Coach here at Monmouth University, and I strive to lead my players each and every day. I am so lucky to have a great team, assistant coaches, and administration here at Monmouth!”

What would you advise a young college student who wanted to try joining the tennis team?

“Go for it! College tennis is the opportunity of a lifetime!”

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