Something new is on the horizon for Malone University women's tennis this fall. For the first time in program history, the primary portion of their season will take place during the fall instead of the spring.

The Pioneers will face the toughest schedule that the program has seen in a long while, possibly ever, after joining the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). Although it is unchartered waters for his players to compete in the fall, especially against such stiff competition, second-year head coach Brian Mogus remains optimistic.

“Our motto this summer was 'prepare or repair' and physically, everyone came back in good shape” said Mogus.” It has allowed us to spend more time on tennis instead of conditioning as we prepare for our first match.”

In Mogus' inaugural season in 2011-12, the Pioneers assembled a 7-13 record. He hopes the four returnees from last year's squad can lead the 2012-13 group to new heights.

Senior Kim Knisley returns as the Pioneers' top player from a year ago. In 2011, Knisley played as the #1 singles and doubles player, where she sported a 6-14 singles record and 9-11 doubles record.

“Kim had a really solid year last year,” said Mogus. “She is our senior captain and she sets the tone for us during every practice.”

Playing behind Knisley will be junior Kaley Kahoun. Kahoun gained experience at both #2 and #3 singles a year ago, posting an 8-11 singles record and a 7-12 doubles mark mainly at #2.

“Kaley is an experienced player who has really brought a positive attitude to our squad this year,” said Mogus.

Senior Marie Konstan, who has been battling illness during the current fall camp, had a lot of key wins for the Pioneers last season as the #5 singles player. She finished the year 7-11 in singles matches and 7-12 in doubles.

Junior Janelle Linder played fourth singles for the 2011 team, recording a 6-12 singles record and 5-14 doubles mark. Mogus is thrilled with her progress over the summer.

"Janelle has tremendously improved the technical part of her game and should be real steady for us,” noted Mogus.

The coach also believes a few newcomers will be poised for big things in 2012. Joining the Pioneers are high school teammates Erika Lester and Asia Harris. The two were part of Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy's team last year that was at one point ranked #1 in the state of Ohio. Both qualified for the district tournament while Harris even went on to play in the state tournament. Mogus believes neither will have much problem assimilating into the college game.

“These two bring a lot of talent that is comparable to players within our strong GLIAC conference,” commented Mogus.” We are excited for their futures.”

Junior Alexis Hill and freshman Emily Kahoun, sister of Kaley, are the other two newcomers who round out the squad. Mogus is thrilled to have them join the program.

“Alexis and Emily are both very athletic and great all-around additions to this year's team,” said Mogus.

Through the initial stages of preseason workouts, Mogus is very excited with how his team has performed.

“Our courts have been resurfaced, so we have been able to get in some great practices in a great atmosphere right in the center of campus,” Mogus said. “The team has bonded well in preseason and the attitudes have been outstanding. We are really anxious and excited for the coming fall season.”