Jan. 30, 2006

PHILADELPHIA - Xavier University senior Rob Simpson has been named the Atlantic 10 Conference Performer of the Week for men's tennis while freshman teammate Ra'ees Ismail was named the A-10 Conference Rookie of the Week. The honors follow XU's 2-1 week which included wins over Cleveland State and Youngstown State.

Simpson, a senior from Alton, Ill., posted a 3-0 record in singles play including a 6-2, 5-7, 10-6 win over Ohio State's Ty Schaub on Jan. 25. The senior also teamed with Doug Matthews at first doubles for a 2-1 mark with an 8-3 win over Cleveland State on Jan. 28 and an 8-3 defeat of Youngstown State on Jan. 29.

Ismail, a freshman from Maineville, Ohio, recorded a 2-1 mark in singles and doubles play this past week. Ismail recorded singles wins over Cleveland State (6-2, 6-3) and Youngstown State (6-1, 6-0) while teaming up with senior Rustin Reys at No. 3 doubles for a 9-8 (5) win against CSU and a 8-0 victory over YSU.

The Xavier men's tennis team will be back in action Saturday, Feb. 4, when the Musketeers will take on Toledo.

-XU-