The Tiverton High School Tennis squad won't know where it stands until matches begin this season. However, with an experience-laden squad, coach Suzanne DelDeo is confident her team will handle the jump up in division.

"We just missed the playoffs last year," said the coach. "So I was surprised that they moved us up. I'm a little worried that we may be up against some tough competition. But I expect good things."

One advantage the Tigers will have entering the new campaign is team depth. While some teams in Division Three scurry to fill out their ranks, 16 raquet-weilding Tigers filed to the hardcourts this March.

Senior Matt Pelletier, sophomores Ryan Bigalow and Devin Rodericks as well as freshmen Nick McGaw, Nate Pelletier and James Miranda will provide the numbers needed to promote competition within the ranks.

However, the majority of points will be garnered by five seniors, three juniors a sophomore and freshman. Below is a thumbnail sketch of how the coach views her expected varsity starters.

#1 Singles — Steve Humphrey

"Steve is a well rounded player. He is solid and determined. He's a strong attack player." — SD

#2 Singles — DiMitri Chernyy

"DiMitri is our most improved player. He played second doubles last year. He's also an attack player. He has a good forehand and backhand. He has excellent skills all around." — SD

#3 Singles — Ross Replogle

"It was difficult to decide between DiMitri and Ross for the #2 slot. Ross is a solid and determined player. He has excellent stamina, he likes to draw the points out. The matches between he and DiMitri were very tight." — SD

#4 Singles — Paul Lebreaux

"Paul is another player who improved drastically. He played third doubles last year. He is determined and aggressive with strong, solid skills. He should do well." — SD

#1 Doubles — Casey Desormier & Chris DaCosta

"These are two seniors who work well together. They're both well-rounded and they rely on each other and are always in correct position." — SD

#2 Doubles — Sean Aguiar & Dan Milot

"Sean is a new player and he and Dan have been playing together since the very start of practices. They know each other and should do well." — SD

#3 Doubles — Alex DaCosta & Jeff Goncalo

"I was undecided about the third doubles spot until recently. I think I've found two effective players for this spot. Alex is a tenth-grader who is quick and very good at the net. Jeff is a freshman who is good at the net and has excellent skills from the baseline. Both have potential as singles players." — SD

'04 Record —7-9, sixth of nine teams, Class C-South

BY ADAM COTE

sports@eastbaynewspapers.com