Tuesday, 10/09/2012

Proving that hard work does not go unnoticed, two Wildcats have been named to the 2012 all-Northwest Conference Men’s Tennis Team, as announced Friday after a vote by the league’s coaches.

Despite finishing seventh in the NWC point standings, Linfield (2-18, 2-10 NWC) saw Cody Levien be honored as the NWC Sportsman of the Year and Zach Lyons receive honorable mention consideration.

Competing at No. 1 singles for the first time in his career, Levien finished the 2011-12 season with a 2-14 overall record, with both wins coming against NWC opponents.

Lyons wrapped up his junior campaign with a 6-12 record in singles play, with four victories coming in conference matches.

The two were very successful in doubles action, however, teaming to post an 11-6 record overall, 6-4 in league play. Their .647 winning percentage was fourth-best in the NWC at No. 1 doubles, and they ended the season on a high note with an 8-6 victory against Pacific.

Whitman’s Andrew La Cava was chosen as the NWC Player of the Year. His coach, Jeff Northam, was honored as the NWC Coach of the Year.