Salem, Mass. - Salem State College women's tennis coach Joseph Dunn, Sr. and his team can't wait to begin the 2008 season, and for good reason. What's the good reason you ask? How about the answer being six brand new tennis courts at the college's Central Campus.

"The players and coaching staff are extremely excited about playing and hosting matches on the new courts," said Dunn, who will be entering his 10th year as head coach. "I have a feeling it's going to be a special season."

If Dunn's feeling is going to become a reality, that reality will begin with two-time Little East Conference champion Megan Cote of Fall River. Cote has been the top flight singles player in the conference the past two years. She has compiled an eye-popping 27-1 record as SSC No. 1 singles performer.

"Megan has been in a zone since stepping on the court two years ago," said Dunn, who played tennis at SSC as an undergraduate in the late 1970's. "She is a complete player who brings her "A" game to the court every time she competes."

Cote was honored last May when she received the SSC Female President's Cup Award presented annually to the college's top athlete. She is also a member of the women's basketball team which advanced to the second round of 2008 NCAA Tournament.

Dunn is hoping to fill some vacated spots on his 2008 roster. Four seniors said goodbye to the program last year. Dunn will miss No. 2 singles player Becky Pyndynkowski (Danvers), No. 3 singles performer Sara Paunovic (Lynn), No. 5 singles player Sophea Neak (Lynn) and No. 6 singles performer Angela Palma (Peabody). The four departed seniors won a combined 109 singles and doubles matches.

"The four graduated seniors will be missed for sure," said Dunn. "As will five-year assistant coach Rintaro Fukutomi who has returned to Japan. All five individuals had a positive impact on the program. I greatly appreciate their dedication and commitment."

Dunn has designated sophomore Alicia Poore (Stoneham) to serve as team captain for the 2008 season. "Alicia proved to be a tough competitor in every match she played last year. She posted a winning record in singles and doubles, teaming up with Paunovic to capture the conference No. 2 doubles consolation title. She has a great attitude and fun personality."

Sophomore Jess Distler (Pepperell), who produced a steady performance at No. 7 singles during her rookie campaign, is projected by Dunn to fill the No. 5 singles slot and be a member of the No. 2 doubles tandem. Dunn is confident about the combination of his three returning players jelling with the five newcomers who will make up the roster.

"I feel we are going to be very competitive in the Little East Conference," predicted Dunn. "We have the top player in the league and two other veterans who help lead the team."

The Lady Vikings will open their 2008 season on September 9 when they travel to Worcester State for a 3:30 p.m. match against the Lancers.