Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Valparaiso University’s Jose Gaspar (Sao Paulo, Brazil/CEAD H.S.) has been named the Horizon League’s men’s tennis Athlete of the Week for the second straight time after posting a 4-0 record last week in Crusader victories over Robert Morris (Pa.) and South Dakota State.

The senior, playing number one singles, cruised to a 6-1, 6-1 victory over Ricardo Horlle of Robert Morris on Tuesday before downing the Jackrabbits’ Justin Pyle 6-2, 6-1 in Wednesday’s match.  Gaspar also teamed with Eric Honert (Arvada, Colo./Ralston Valley H.S.) at the top spot in doubles.  The duo downed the Colonials 8-1 before defeating South Dakota State 8-6.

On the season Gaspar has improved his singles record to 10-11 overall, including a 5-6 mark at the top spot this spring.  He also sports seven doubles triumphs.

Valparaiso (5-6), winner of five of its last seven matches, returns to action on Saturday afternoon to open Horizon League play.  The Crusaders host Green Bay beginning at 2 p.m. at the Northwest Athletic Club in Michigan City.