Husker Netters Set Sights High Behind Ostermann

By Shannon Sherman
­Head Coach Scott Jacobson does not hesitate to make lofty predictions for the 2003-04 Nebraska women’s tennis team.

The 13th-year coach’s confidence is rooted in an experienced Husker team that includes four seniors and junior standout Gitte Ostermann, an All-Big 12 selection in 2002-03. The Huskers also welcome sophomore Milena Schulz-Gartner, who has the talent to step into the top half of the lineup this spring.

"The expectations for the program are higher than they’ve ever been," Jacobson said. "We believe we can have our highest national ranking in school history. We believe we can finish higher than we’ve ever finished in the Big 12 Conference, and we believe we can make the NCAA Tournament for the first time in our school’s history."

Much of the Huskers’ success will depend on Ostermann, who is finally healthy after struggling with a shoulder injury the past two seasons. Ostermann won the consolation bracket at the prestigious Riviera/ITA Women’s All-American Championships Oct. 10, defeating four ranked opponents along the way.

"We believe that Gitte is one of the top players in the country, and now that she is completely healthy, she will have the chance to prove it," Jacobson said. "The sky is the limit for her. She is an amazing talent."

Nebraska’s solid senior class includes Leslie Harvey, Rebecca Harvey, Rose Ketmayura and Anna Oehme. Leslie Harvey finished the season with a 9-12 singles record while competing primarily at the No. 2-3 spots.

"We are expecting great things from Leslie," Jacobson said. "She’s talented enough to have a tremendous impact on our season."

Ketmayura went 8-12 as a junior, including a 2-2 mark at No. 2 singles. Jacobson said Ketmayura is an athletic player who will be a regular in the singles and doubles lineups.

Oehme will join Ketmayura and Harvey in the lineup after contributing at the Nos. 3-5 spots last season and recording a 14-6 record, the best singles mark of any Husker.

"Last year, Anna was probably the most improved player on the team," Jacobson said. "She has a tremendous passion for the game, and a really strong belief in herself."

The Huskers’ fourth senior, Rebecca Harvey, went 10-5 while playing mostly in the bottom half of the lineup last year.

Other returning letterwinners include junior Katie Garcia, a graduate of Lincoln Southeast, and sophomores Pamela Castillejos and Jennifer Cremieux. NU lists just one newcomer, Schulz-Gartner.

"Milena is just a gem," Jacobson said. "She comes to practice every day and wears a smile on her face constantly. She has a tremendous attacking style and a great return. Milena is a tremendous addition to our program."

The Huskers have two fall team competitions before opening the spring season Jan. 30 against Colorado State in Lincoln. NU lists 13 home meets on its schedule and opens the Big 12 Conference season March 6 at Baylor. The Big 12 Championships begin April 29 in Norman, Okla.