The Grace College women’s tennis team, under the direction of first-year coach Scott Moore, opens its season Wednesday (Photo provided by Grace College Sports Information Department)

WINONA LAKE – The women’s tennis team at Grace College will have a much different look in 2013, starting from the top down.

First-year head coach Scott Moore is eager to lead a young Lady Lancers’ squad on the courts this fall.

Grace has just three upperclassmen on its roster, led by returning No. 1 singles player Kristin Cassidy in her junior season. Moore will also lean on seniors Janelle Hess and Esther Smith for their court experience and spiritual influence.

“Each one of the girls has an eagerness to get better. Not only will these girls grow spiritually, but I know each one of them will improve their play as the season goes on,” Moore said. “This team all gets along very well, which is important to any team.”

Moore has five new freshmen to work with this fall, including three Indiana natives (Jayna Huber, Rachel Smith and Mariah Zumbrun) and a pair of Ohio recruits (Katie Etter, Gabrielle Lawrence). According to Moore each freshman has an opportunity to make an immediate impact on the team.

In his first season at the helm of Grace’s tennis program, Moore hopes to accomplish three main goals.

“Overall I want the team to grow spiritually and play in a way to glorify God. I also want them to put in the work to become the best tennis players they are capable of becoming,” Moore continued. “Finally I want them to enjoy the moment. These are some of the best memories that they will experience, so I want them to enjoy the journey.”

The Lady Lancers will play at Northwestern Ohio on Wednesday for their first official match of the year. Grace will start Crossroads League competition on Sept. 3 when they travel to Spring Arbor. Grace’s first home match is against defending Crossroads League champion Indiana Wesleyan on Sept. 7.