University of Tennessee Athletics
Rea's Run Ends in Quaterfinals of Louisana Pro Tournament
October 31, 2003 | Men's Tennis
Oct. 31, 2003
HAMMOND, La. - Tennessee's Simon Rea lost Friday in the singles quarterfinals at the SmithBarney City of Hammond Men's Futures tennis tournament, a USTA Professional Futures Circuit event at Oak Knoll Country Club. Ole Miss senior Paul Ciorascu eliminated the Vol veteran in three sets.
Rea, ranked No. 12 in the current ITA national singles rankings, won the first set Friday afternoon by a score of 6-3. It marked the first time in his last three contests that he led a match after the opening set. In each of his previous two victories at the event, he overcame one-set deficits to capture wins.
Against Ciorascu however, the New Zealand native seemed to reach his peak too early. After losing the first stanza, the No. 19-ranked Rebel proceeded to steal the final two sets, and thus, recorded his first career win over Rea in three attempts.
Rea's quarterfinal berth marked his best career finish in a USTA Professional Futures Circuit event.
The USTA Professional Circuit is the world's premier developmental circuit for aspiring professional tennis players. It allows players to gain the experience and ranking points needed to participate on the major pro tours and in Grand Slam tournaments. Futures events are one of three levels of tournaments, along with Satellite and Challenger events, on the USTA Professional circuit and generally offer approximately $15,000 in prize money per event. While college players are permitted to participate in such tournaments, the NCAA places restrictions on the amount of winnings student-athletes can receive.
SmithBarney City of Hammond Men's Futures Results - Friday, Oct. 31, 2003
Main Singles Draw - Quarterfinals
Ciorascu def. Rea, 3-6, 6-3, 7-5
