After impressive play at the Rolex Region IV tournament three weeks ago, the Michigan men's tennis team thought it was the No. 1 team in the region. Then, the Wolverines would be able to mark Feb. 22 on their calendars, because the top-ranked team in the region is invited to the National Indoor Championships in Austin, Texas.
But the regional rankings are decided by an ITA committee headed by rotating coaches, and Illinois head coach Craig Tiley just happened to be the head of the group.
The Wolverines, whose statistics were far better than any other team at the Rolex regionals, were shocked at seeing a No. 4 next to their name. Illinois was first, followed by Northwestern and Notre Dame.
While there is no set ranking criteria, the Rolex regional tournament has always been the most important factor, because it was the only tournament that brought together every team in the region.
Preseason rankings and other tournaments also affect the rankings, but there was inconsistency this year.
The singles and doubles rankings were greatly affected by the results of regionals, whereas it did not affect the team rankings.
Northwestern senior Alex Witt, who won the tournament, was No. 1 in the regional singles rankings.
12-01-97
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