RUTLAND, Vt. – Castleton's men's tennis team opened its season this afternoon against the Norwich Cadets, falling to the in-state rivals, 8-1. 

The Spartans put on a strong performance despite returning just three players from last season's squad. Leading the way was Seth Marcil, who picked up the lone Castleton point in the event. The junior played in the No. 3 singles slot, defeating Norwich's Ian Hyte, 6-3, 6-2.

Kyle Martin fell in the top-flight singles match – 7-6, 6-2 – followed by Andrew Overton who fell in straight sets in the second slot. 

The Cadets put on a dominating performance in doubles actions, sweeping the hosts in all three matches. In the top-flight match, the duo of Christopher Belanger and Marcil fell 8-5, while Martin and Overton were defeated 8-3 in the No. 2 slot. 

The Spartans return to action this Saturday when they host the Southern Maine Huskies in non-conference action at 1 pm.