The Collin College men's and women's Tennis teams are nationally ranked No. 2 and No. 8, respectively. We asked Coach Jamie Nanez about the rankings and how the team looks going into the final stretch of the spring season.

Were your team rankings what you thought they would be?
I knew our men's team was good, but I don't think I anticipated us being in the No. 2 spot going in to nationals. I think it is a testament to this group of young men and their dedication to this team. There are a lot of early mornings in the No. 2 ranking! I am extremely proud of them. It is great to see them as a team.

The women are about where I thought they would be. If I am being honest, I think we have more talent than that No. 8 ranking. Their goal was to finish in the top 5, but we will have to wait until nationals is over to see if we can get there. We have the talent. We just have to put some things together.

How have the teams performed over the past few meets?
The men have done great! They look different. They look like they expect to win. There is a sense of confidence they have, and at the same time, they have humility. So, it is good to see.

The women are still finding their way. Good thing is that we have more opportunities ahead.

Do you continue to see development in your players? If so, who?
There are two that stand out over these last few weeks. Minjae Kim continues to do well. He is now the No. 1 ranked junior college player in the country. He has stepped up and we are all hoping he can take us to the top! I told him a long time ago that we will go as far as he takes us. Him being our No. 1 player (and now No. 1 in JUCO) helps us with confidence. It is good to see him doing well. 

We also have a freshman standout that I should mention – Santiago Martinez. He has stepped up in doubles and is a HUGE part of our success and being ranked at No. 2. He really has come in and contributed to our doubles lineup. Him and Luke Stula are something to watch! Really, all of our men's doubles teams are doing well.  

For the women – we continue to have one or two each match play really well.  We just need more consistency. We have the talent. I will keep saying it. Just have to put it all together as a team. 

Do you feel like the teams are in the right frames of mind going into the end of the season?
I think so. We have prepared as much as we can to this point. My job is to keep their confidence high and keep them healthy. I am excited for both teams.