SKILLMAN, N.J. - The University of South Dakota women's tennis team received its first-ever regional team ranking by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association this week. The Coyotes were ranked 10th as a team in the North Central Region.

In addition, the USD doubles team of Rijalda Zejnic (So., Hamilton, Ontario) and Andrea Da Silva (Fr., Laguna Vista, Texas) was ranked 10th in the regional rankings. They are USD's second-ever doubles team ranked by the ITA. Last year, Rachel Kludt and Amanda Barton were ranked eighth in the fall rankings.

"I am very happy for the team and with the continued development of our tennis program," said Malcolm Gilreath, USD's fourth-year coach. "The USD tennis team has worked very hard both on and off the court. For them to earn this recognition provides us with more incentive to continue to work hard to improve as a team."

This fall, the Coyotes were 3-0 in dual competition. A year ago, USD set a school record with a 16-9 overall record.

The regional rankings include: 1. Emporia State; 2. Southwest Baptist; 3. Washburn; 4. Mesa State; 5. Truman State; 6. Northwest Missouri; 7. Missouri Southern; 8. Nebraska-Kearney; 9. Fort Hays State; 10. South Dakota.