MEN'S TENNIS

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BUFFALO, NY - The University at Buffalo men's tennis squad presented its team awards for the 2001-02 season at the annual Athletic Awards Banquet, held on Sunday,April 28 at Samuel's Grande Manor.

Randy Rocchio

Head coach Russ Crispell presented Nick Zieziula (Hamburg, NY/St. Francis) with the Top Newcomer Award, Randy Rocchio (East Amherst, NY/Williamsville East) with the Most Improved Player Award, Justin Brtko (East Amherst, NY/Williamsville East) with the Coach's Award and Fery Kasiman (Jarkarta, Indonesia/ESI International Academy) with the team's Most Valuable Player Award.

The Top Newcomer Award is presented to the individual student-athlete who distinguishes himself as the most talented new player on the team or the individual who accomplishes the greatest achievements as a first-year player. Zieziula compiled an impressive 15-9 overall singles record at second, third and fourth singles. Zieziula secured UB's 4-3 victory over nationally-ranked Division III squad Rochester, winning both his singles and doubles matches. Zieziula along with Rocchio, competing unattached, made it to the quarterfinals of the prestigious Milwaukee Tennis Classic. The Milwaukee Classic is the largest and longest-running tennis tournament featuring collegiate tennis players in the United States.

The Most Improved Player Award is presented to the student-athlete who has made the greatest stride or improvement in his performance from the previous season or from the beginning of the season to the end of the season. Rocchio compiled an impressive 12-6 doubles record, playing with Zieziula, and an overall 11-13 singles record.

Fery Kasiman

The Coach's Award is selected by the head coach and is given to the student-athlete who best exemplifies the team virtues as defined by the head coach. The recipient is one who stands out in dedication, commitment, unselfishness and enthusiasm towards helping the team improve. Brtko turned in an impressive 15-9 overall singles record while also serving as team tri-captain. Brtko earned the team's Most Valuable Player Award in 2000-2001 and the team's Most Improved Player Award in 1999-2000.

The Most Valuable Player Award is given to the student-athlete who makes the most significant contribution to the accomplishments of the team through his skills and leadership. Kasiman posted a 16-8 overall record at first singles for the Bulls this past season while also serving as team captain.

The Bulls finished the season 10-11 overall and 0-5 in the MAC.