Grizzlies set for home finale

Montana (3-14, 2-5 BSC) has been on quite a ride this season, traveling across the country to play a long list of powerful teams. Now, after a previous week competing against strong conference rivals, the Grizzlies will wrap up their final home matches of the season against Portland State and Eastern Washington, starting on Saturday at the Peak Racquet Club at 9 a.m.

Every match always has an intriguing story of some sort. The match against Portland State is no different. Coach Steve Ascher is a Portland native and has previous coaching experience at Portland State. When asked how it feels playing against his former team and community, his response solidifies where his heart rests in such matches. "Portland is my hometown," he said. "But Missoula is my home. I get excited to return to Missoula after trips. Family and friends are what make Missoula so special."

Ascher's young team has responded well to the challenging schedule it has had to undertake. "The team has done a tremendous job growing and maturing through a lot of experiences," he said. "We will put our best effort forward and strive to make Griz Nation proud."

Pride has been the strongest and most visible trait the Grizzlies have shown every match, whether home or on the road, not going unnoticed by fans of the team. The inauguration of the team's booster club this season has been a shining example of the growing love and support the Grizzlies continue to receive. "This has been a solid season working to get the word out about Griz tennis," Ascher said. "We want to do our best to show Griz fans who take the time to come watch us that we are a disciplined team and compete with Griz spirit every point."

Few things are needed to create energy for Griz athletes set to compete. Unless, of course, it's the fans wearing their maroon and silver while chanting "Go Griz," whether the athletes are taking the field or court. The women's tennis team has been no different, consistently drawing fans to support their quest to be a shining example of college athletics. They would love nothing more than to see Griz Nation in full force supporting their home finale.

Montana hosts Portland State (5-9, 4-6 BSC) on Saturday at 9 a.m. in what will be the Vikings' final match of the regular season. The Grizzlies host Eastern Washington (10-9, 4-4 BSC) on Sunday at 9 a.m. The Eagles handed Montana a 5-2 loss in January in a non-conference match played in Pullman, Wash.

Both matches this weekend are free of charge and open to the public.

Montana wraps up its regular season next week with matches at Idaho State and Weber State. The Grizzlies will face the Bengals on Friday in Pocatello, the Wildcats on Saturday in Ogden.

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