University of Southern Mississippi Athletics
Doleac Enjoying Strong End To College Career
2/19/2015 12:00:00 AM | Men's Tennis
There isn't much Alex Doleac hasn't seen on the Southern Miss tennis courts.
When he first arrived, he was part of a team with no a coach and only four players. Today, he's on a team with depth, talent and a coach who is building a program around players like Doleac.
"From then until now, it's crazy to see, not only as a tennis player but as a person, how I've developed and how the team has developed," Doleac said. "I think I've experienced parallel growth in both of those areas. And I've gotten to meet great guys from all over the world."
Last year, the Southern Miss men went 12-11 under then-first-year-coach Zubin Engineer. This year Engineer hopes for even more success.
"I think we are definitely a step ahead now and we are moving in the right direction," Engineer said. "We've got some good young players who are motivated, who are hungry. We've done a lot of work in the fall, especially with our fitness, making sure we are in good shape to play."
Last year, Doleac accounted for eight wins in singles competition and a pair of wins in doubles action.
He also became known for his ability to deliver when matches were on the line, notching three match-clinching wins.
The biggest of those victories was a 4-6, 7-6 (2), 7-6 (7) win over Old Dominion's Dante Terenzio in the 2014 Conference USA Tournament. More than a win in a key match, this also marked Doleac's emergence as the Golden Eagles' leader.
"That was the first time that I felt I had ownership of this team, like I belonged here in that position," Doleac said. "I'm getting older and rising to a leadership level. That was a great moment, not only because of the result but because of all the support that built up around me."
Now, Doleac, who is the only American on a team that features players from eight countries, is tasked with helping to keep this collection of talent aimed in the right direction.
"Alex leads in every department," Engineer said. "Off the court he is always there helping his teammates. On the court, he does what we need him to do. He won a key match for us in the conference last year. He's the kind of guy who can do whatever the team requires."
"People ask me all the time, `How is it being the only American on the team?'" Doleac said. "I tell them it can be crazy but I wouldn't change it for the world. I grew up right down the road and the rest of these guys come from all over the world. It's really cool to be that guy who can invite them out to my house or to have dinner with them. It's hard for them to come all the way to Mississippi and have no family. On the court it translates as well. It's become our own little family." Hopes are high that this year will mark another progression.
"I think this team is great," Doleac said. "Looking back at the other teams I have been a part of and this team now, I don't see why we can't win a conference title. We have a good team and can compete with anyone. It's so exciting for me to see it grow from rock bottom and rebuilding to being competitive. It's cool to have been around from the worst until now and see the improvement."
