University of Memphis Athletics
Peniston earns NCAA singles championship bid
May 02, 2018 | Men's Tennis
Peniston, Watson named alternate for NCAA doubles championship
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – A day after the Memphis men's tennis team heard their name announced as part of the NCAA Tournament field, senior Ryan Peniston made history as he was selected to compete in the individual singles championship of the NCAA Tournament.
On the doubles side, Peniston and classmate Andrew Watson were named an alternate selection in the field of 32. The duo currently rank No. 43 nationally in the Oracle/ITA Collegiate Tennis Rankings.
Becoming the first Tiger to play in the NCAA Tournament in the singles competition since 1976, Peniston holds a 15-2 record in dual match play this season. The two-time all-conference selection is 80-32 in singles for his career and has claimed 14 top-100 victories.
Leading the Tigers at the No. 1 position, Peniston captured seven match-clinching victories for Memphis (18-5, 5-0). The Great Wakering, Great Britain native is currently ranked No. 35 in singles nationally, which also ties his career-high ranking.
"I'm super excited for Ryan and all that he has accomplished. He is such a great representative of the university and of our program," head coach Paul Goebel said of the senior. "He has excellent sportsmanship. His competitive spirit on the court is fantastic. Even though he was a good player as a freshman, he's a great example of how hard work and determination can help you improve. To finish his college career at the NCAA singles tournament is very fitting."
The official singles and doubles bracket will be released on a later date, with competition to be held May 23-28 in Winston-Salem, N.C., after the team championship finals. Wake Forest University will serve as host for both events.
As a team, the Tigers are set to make their sixth NCAA Tournament appearance in seven seasons. Memphis travels to Starkville, Miss., to face South Alabama on May 11 at 10 a.m. to open the first round.
Players Mentioned
