Kearney, Neb. – The Nebraska-Kearney women's tennis team is ranked ninth in the Central Region by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA).

The preseason Oracle/ITA national and region team preseason rankings were released this week. Back in November the organization released regional singles and doubles rankings after the completion of the fall season. Papillion junior Claire Neil and Kansas freshman Brooklyn Hunter were ranked tabbed as the Central's fifth best doubles pair.

In the latest team national rankings, the Central is represented by Central Oklahoma (9th), Washburn (T-20th) and Northwest Missouri State (23rd). Southern Arkansas is among those receiving votes for the Top 25. 

A young UNK squad went 5-1 in fall duals, sweeping Sioux Falls and besting RMAC-members Colorado Mesa, 5-2, and Dixie (Utah) State, 4-3. The Lopers also took part in the Augustana Invite (22 overall wins) and ITA Central Regionals (15 overall wins).

The Lopers start the dual season on Friday, January 31, with an exhibition tilt at Nebraska-Omaha. The regular season begins the next day in Des Moines vs. Upper Iowa.

The next rankings will be released on Thursday, February 20, and again consisted of only teams. 
 
January 15 – Oracle/ITA Central Region Rankings

1. Central Oklahoma
2. Southern Arkansas
3. Northwest Missouri State
4. Washburn
5. Harding (Ark.)
6. Arkansas Tech
7. Augustana
8. Northeastern State
9. UNK
10. Oklahoma Baptist