The College of DuPage men's tennis team fell 9-0 at Prairie State College on March 27. With the loss, the Chaps move to 1-1 on the season.

Despite the result, DuPage showed promising signs against the reigning regional champions, particularly with a newly finalized lineup.

"We've finalized our lineup for the season and I'm very happy with the looks we had today against the reigning regional champions," said head coach Jim Bowers. "Our opponents were fast, smart, and didn't make any mental mistakes, but our student-athletes controlled their serves and positioned themselves properly on the court."

Bowers also noted encouraging play in singles competition.

"Singles also looked promising. Everyone played steady shots from the baseline area and were able to attack on short balls, but we struggled finishing points when that extra ball came back that our student-athletes weren't used to," Bowers said. "We need to work on getting ready for the next ball, such as a volley or overhead, so we can finish points."

At No. 1 singles, Brandon Dumbell dropped the opening set 6-0, but responded with a strong second-set performance. Dumbell relied on big serves and battled from the baseline against the regional champion, creating a break opportunity late in the set before falling 6-4.

"Brandon has the weapons to compete against anyone and is one of the physically strongest and fastest student-athletes we've ever had at COD," Bowers said. "I'm glad he's a Chap and he's someone who has a solid chance to do some big things this season."

DuPage returns to action on April 1, traveling to Sugar Grove to face Waubonsee Community College at 3 p.m.