As the end draws near on one of the most successful years in Lee University athletics, the men’s tennis team received a surprise on Monday afternoon.  Manuel Cornejo was named the Flames’ first NAIA All-American in men’s tennis. 

After advancing to the NAIA National Tournament for the second year in a row, the No. 11-ranked Flames tennis team was probably not expecting any more achievements.  However, Cornejo’s selection was revealed at the conclusion of the tournament. 

“Manuel had some great wins this year.  He realized it was his last go-around and he worked hard to lose weight and get in better playing condition and went out on top of his game,” remarked coach Tony Cavett. 

The native of Quito, Ecuador was ranked No. 26 by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) and built an impressive 9-4 record as Lee finished 14-6.  One of his most impressive wins in two sets was over the No. 1 player for third-ranked Auburn-Montgomery.  He also beat then No. 11 ranked Shorter College twice and archrival Berry College. 

Cornejo teamed with Max Nudman for the 10^th best doubles team as ranked by the ITA.  They finished at 11-3, including two wins over Shorter. 

Cavett noted, “This is a great honor for Manuel and the Lee tennis program.  Manuel has had to do a balancing act this year between his tennis, getting married, and preparing to graduate.”    

Cornejo will join the tennis staff at Cumberland University in the fall of 2005 and will work on his graduate degree. 

Also receiving awards were Nudman and senior Chris Campbell, who were named NAIA All-American Scholar Athletes.  Cornejo finished 12-7 and 13-7 in doubles.  Nudman played in the tough No. 2 spot and won several important matches, finishing at 9-9 in singles.