FRIDLEY, Minn. – The Bethel University men's tennis team opened their 2017 season with a dominant 9-0 victory over Snelling Avenue neighbor Northwestern Saturday night. Bethel swept all three doubles matches by 8-2 scores and won all six singles matches in straight sets.
 
Seniors Matt Schull and Kolin Kiekhoefer took care of business at No. 1 and No. 2 singles and teamed up at No. 1 doubles for their 8-2 win. Sophomore Hunter Fernelius at No. 3 singles and junior Jakob Bartels at No. 4 singles lost just three combined games in their singles matches and combined at No. 2 doubles for the 8-2 victory. Bethel showcased their depth also as No. 5 singles player Noah Ridgeway won his first collegiate match 6-0, 6-1. Another freshman won his debut in dominant fashion as well, as Nick Knudson won at No. 6 singles 6-0, 6-0. Seniors Kent Schaller and Cash Rodemaker won 8-2 at No. 3 doubles for Bethel, further showcasing the Royals depth.
 
The Royals return to action next Saturday with a pair of matches at the Owatonna Tennis Club against Wartburg College and Bethany Lutheran College beginning at 11:30 a.m.