The Niagara tennis programs are back in action this weekend, taking on local rivals. The men’s squad will participate in the SBU Fall Classic hosted by St. Bonaventure and the women’s team opens its 2012-13 season at Buffalo.

Niagara will face St. Bonaventure and Robert Wesleyan. The doubles competition begins on Friday while the singles action starts on Saturday. This will be the men’s second tournament of the season. NU’s  first tournament was at the Bison Quad earlier this month where the team had a strong showing. The Purple Eagles went 10-1 in singles and doubles matches on day one. Senior captain Brandon Gallegos captured his first individual singles title by claiming the flight B title, while also being runners-up in doubles title match with teammate Lorenz Schwojer.

The women’s team opens its campaign with a dual match with local rival Buffalo. Niagara, which had seven freshmen and one junior, finished last season winning three of its last four matches. The Purple Eagles return everyone from last season, including senior captain Hilary Hansen (17-8), sophomore Maria Ortiz (19-5) and classmate Ashley Ta (14-8) who was named MAAC Co-Rookie of the Year.

For match updates, follow Niagara Tennis on Twitter  @NiagaraUTennis.