Kai Rieke Season 2000-01

Outlook: The combination of a successful summer schedule, improved confidence and rapid development in all areas will make Kai Rieke a threat on the court. According to Coach Kerry McDermott, Rieke is called "The Silent Assassin" because of his deadly force on the court.

As a Junior: (Spring 2000) Rieke played at the top four positions throughout the year while compiling a 12-11 mark, the team's best record. This mark nabbed him a No. 24 spot in the Region V singles rankings. He also ended the season with a 7-8 doubles record at the No. 1 position. (Fall 1999) Rieke posted NU's best fall singles mark at 5-3. Rieke was impressive in October, when he won the Flight A singles championship at the Drake Classic in Des Moines, Iowa. In fall doubles play, Rieke joined Kelsey Moran to go 2-2.

As a Sophomore (1998-99): Rieke arrived at Nebraska for his sophomore season after playing for Gymnasium High School in Nordhorn, Germany. Rieke contributed immediately, competing at No. 4 singles where he posted a 12-7 mark. Rieke played his best tennis during the final three weeks of the season, when he captured five straight singles victories, including a pair of wins in the Big 12 Tournament. Rieke, who had a 6-13 record at No. 3 doubles, earned honorable-mention academic All-Big 12 honors.

Other: Rieke played for Gymnasium High School, the same school from which former Husker No. 1 singles player Dinko Verzi (1997-99) graduated. The son of Rosemarie and Hansgerd Rieke, Kai was born Jan. 19, 1976. Rieke has an older sister, Maren. Rieke is a news-editorial major.