Athlete Spotlight: Francois Billet
0The University of Pikeville received many talented freshmen for their 2014 Spring Season. One in particular is Francois Billet, from France. He has been showing outstanding performance on and off the tennis court.
Billet arrived to UPIKE in fall 2013. During his first semester he fit well with the team, showed hard working effort on the tennis court and made an impression on all the teammates.
“Francois is amazing tennis player, with strong dedication he has limitless potential. He has bright future ahead of him at UPIKE!” coach Tim Alderman said.
Billet started his college tennis career in spring 2014, with a win over Charleston University. Morehead was next on the schedule. Billet as fifth seed received defeat from D1 senior player, David Clifford, 6-4, 6-4. Later on he managed to make up for it with the victory over EKU D1 player Diego Asis 6-3, 4-6, (11-9). Billet continued to dominate throughout ‘AUM Spring Invitational Tournament’, defeating every opponent that comes his way. His highlight victory occurred over Francisco Mendleta; 4-6, 7-6, (10-6) a player from NAIA, No. 2 ranked team, Auburn-Montgomery University.
“It was a good experience competing against other teams in the nation. My confidence grew as I challenged different opponents, which is important!” Billet said.
After the AUM Spring Invitational Billet had gathered 5-1 winning record. For the next match came the defeat of Bluefield University, with Billet improving his record to 6-1. University of Cumberlands came to strong for the freshmen. Even though UPIKE team claimed a 5-4 victory, Dan Fraser bested Billlet in a close 7-6, 6-2 match.
Over the spring break, Billet was undefeated, claiming a singles victory in all four encounters from Edinboro, McDaniel, Allegheny and Kutztown universities. Putting his record at 10-2 for singles.
“It was great to rest on the beach during spring break, as well as playing matches and being with the team,” Billet said. Billet success also transferred in the doubles line up. Paired up with experienced junior, Connor Smith was a good match for young Billet. So far, Billet/Smith hold a 6-1 winning record this 2014 season.
“I started playing in doubles line up later on the season. It’s a lot of fun and good change from singles. I hope to keep bringing wins for my team and make it to national tournament!” Billet said.