CHARLESTON, Ill. -- During the early signing period, the Eastern Illinois men's tennis squad inked prep standout Kevin Bauman to a National Letter of Intent to join the Panther squad in 2010-11.

“We're very excited to have Kevin signed for the Fall of 2010," said EIU head coach John Blackburn.  "He has been a consistent performer, both at the high school and USTA level in the Chicago area.  That area not only produces some of the best tennis in the state, but also some of the best competition in the entire Midwest."

A native of the Chicago suburb of Naperville, Kevin has earned a 2009 Top 10 ranking in the USTA Chicago District for the 18 and under division.  At Naperville Central, he competed as an All-State singles and doubles player in the IHSA State meet, while also nabbing First Team DuPage Valley All-Conference kudos in 2008 and 2009.

"I feel he has a big upside and will continue to improve at the NCAA collegiate level and be a very productive player for us," said Blackburn.

The 2009-10 Panther unit will officially open spring play early next year, traveling to Purdue on January 18.

... for more info, contact Bart Rettberg, Asst. SID