December 22, 1998

The Intercollegiate Tennis Association released their preseason rankings earlier this week. For the first time in over a decade, the University of Missouri tennis team will be included in those rankings.

The Tigers were ranked 15th in the Central Region. Big 12 Conference opponent, Kansas, received the top rank.

"It's good to know other coaches feel we've improved enough to give us a ranking," Coach Blake Starkey said. "It is early in the year though, and we still have to prove we deserve this kind of recognition."

Missouri freshman Biljana Pawlowa was ranked 30th among individuals in the Central Region. Starkey felt Pawlowa could have been ranked a little higher, but he is sure she will move up in the rankings as the season progresses.

The Tigers' first match will be Jan. 30, against Southeast Missouri State. The match will be played indoors at Club Woodrail in Columbia.