Graduate Nicholas Heng and freshman Fredrik Solheim earned a rare opportunity in a tournament format: a second chance.
At the ITA Central Sectional Championships, Heng and Solheim were the lone doubles pair competing for the Michigan men’s tennis team. While the Wolverines played a handful of singles matches, their doubles matches took center stage as Michigan snagged third place — the last spot to clinch an NCAA berth. In low-margin matches with pressure in every service game, the Wolverines pulled through in the tight moments where it mattered.
“I think we both return really well, I think we have different strengths on the return,” Heng said. “(Solheim) returns really well off the backhand. Guys who haven’t played us yet aren’t entirely sure where to serve, and it takes them a while to figure out some of the spots because we both return really well on both sides.”
Its return quality elevated Michigan, but what kept the Wolverines grounded was the serve. Michigan’s first match against Oklahoma State saw quick holds from both sides. The Wolverines’ serve-and-volley pattern shined early, with Heng playing especially sharp at the net behind Solheim’s strong deliveries. Michigan tippe...