March 5, 2007
Junior Chris Parkes has been chosen as the Qwest Student Athlete of the Week, going undefeated over the weekend for the men’s tennis team. His success helped the Lobos cruise past in-state rival New Mexico State for the 85th time in the series history with a 6-1 win. Parkes also led New Mexico in the shutout (7-0) over Nevada and the come-from-behind victory (4-3) over No. 74 Sacramento State.
Parkes teamed with his younger brother, Johnny, for three wins at No. 2 doubles. On Friday their 8-4 win was the first of two, which gave UNM the doubles point. The Parkes’ 8-3 victory on Saturday was the first of three as the Lobos swept doubles competition. On Sunday, their 8-1 pounding over the Hornets was the lone doubles win for New Mexico. Now 6-1 overall, Parkes has won five consecutive doubles matches.
In singles, Parkes was nearly untouchable. He surrendered just one set to his New Mexico State opponent on Friday and blanked his Nevada opposition on Saturday. Sunday’s 7-5, 6-3 victory at No. 6 pushed the Lobos ahead of Sacramento State after falling behind in doubles action. Parkes, 6-1 overall, is a perfect 4-0 this season when playing at No. 6.