NATCHITOCHES – The Northwestern State tennis team opens its six-tournament fall season Friday by hosting four other teams in the Lady Demon Invitational.

The two-day event at the Jack Fisher Tennis Complex begins at 8:30 a.m. Friday and will resume at 9 a.m. Saturday. The event is free and open to the public.
 
Joining the host team in the tournament are Sam Houston, Tyler Junior College and Southland Conference members Stephen F. Austin and Lamar.
 
"I'm looking forward to them getting back into competition, especially the new girls, and getting as many matches as possible," fourth-year head coach Marcos Morelli said. "That way they can get some good repetitions in a college environment."
 
The Demons will hit the court with a roster that features a nearly even balance of five returners and three freshmen. Five of the eight members of the roster will see action this week as Northwestern begins its fall slate.
 
Two newcomers – Nico Tagami and Zala Vnuk – will take part in their first collegiate tournament this weekend.
 
"They're still learning, but I'm very pleased with what they have brought so far," Morelli said. "The energy has been great, and they are eager to learn from the upperclassmen.
 
"I am very excited and proud of where the team is at in terms of culture and leadership."
 
The tournament will feature both singles' and doubles' draws.
 
Morelli said he will keep things straightforward in the doubles' draw.
 
"Yes (there is time for experimenting with the doubles lineup), but not in this tournament," he said. "Right now, we just want to practice doubles. We want to keep it simple in terms of who plays with who. Once the basics are covered, we will probably experiment with some partners."