The Northwest Missouri State men’s and women’s teams were well represented Thursday as the International Tennis Association (ITA) released its 2013 regional award winners as four Bearcats were honored.

The Bearcat men saw Guilherme Narducci named the Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award winner after a solid season at No. 2 doubles and No. 5 singles. Freshman Sergio De Vilchez was tabbed the Central Region Rookie of the Year after posting a 22-6 record, while assistant coach Trevor Conner was named Assistant Coach of the Year for the Central Region.

On the women’s side, Alexis Bartek was named the Central Region Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award winner for her play this season at No. 1 doubles and No. 3 singles.

The Northwest men will open action at the NCAA tournament Wednesday, May 8, in the Round of 16 from Surprise, Ariz. The Bearcats will take on Concordia (N.Y.) starting at 8 a.m. (CST) as the winner will advance to the national quarterfinals May 9. The national championship is set for May 11 from the Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex.

— Northwest Sports Information —