CLINTON, Iowa - The recent weekend marked a fresh beginning for not only all the new students enrolled for the upcoming academic year, but the resurgent Ashford University women's tennis program, which made history on Saturday.

Head Coach Chad Fenwick has forged ahead on the recruiting trail after being hired in late-June and inked a pair of talented prep products in Kjerstin Beswick of Sterling, Ill., and Heather Krumm of Grinnell.

Fenwick, formerly of NCAA Div. II Upper Iowa University, is fielding a squad still on track to participate this season, using the recently acquired Ashford Tennis Center as the team's home venue.

"It's an exciting process to start building the programs here from the ground on up," Fenwick said. "Heather and Kjerstin both have a world of potential and I'm looking forward to working with them. They are very strong academically and have a lot to bring to the table."

Beswick, who attends Orangeville High School near Freeport, is continuing a strong family tradition. Her mother, Ann, played tennis for former Marycrest International University, and her brother, Andy, also played at the high school level.

Beswick has played United States Tennis Association (USTA) club tennis since the age of nine as a member of the Westwood Winners and traveled to locations like Indianapolis and Kansas City, Mo., for matches.

But playing tennis at the collegiate level turned from dream into reality for Beswick. Her most recent team has had several members advance to the next level, playing at Carthage College, Augustana College and Sauk Valley Community College.

"I honestly didn't imagine on playing college tennis," Beswick said. "I love the competition. It's thrilling. I'm excited to start working with a team and an excellent coach so we can work on bringing titles to Ashford."

Beswick, the daughter of Loren and Ann Beswick, chose Ashford over interest from Highland Community College. She will begin her studies in Elementary Education this fall.

Krumm served as Grinell High School's top player as a senior, becoming a mainstay on the varsity squad for her final three years. She worked up from being the No. 7 player as a sophomore to No. 3 as a junior before being entrusted with the role of captain to anchor the Tigers.

Krumm was a four-time selection to the Little Hawkeye All-Academic Team and was also named Grinnell's Most Valuable Player as a senior.

Krumm, the daughter of Dan and Sharon Krumm, chose Ashford over interest from Simpson College. She will pursue her degree in Physical Education.

In the meantime, Fenwick will be conducting tryouts for potential walk-ons during the first week of class. Further details will be announced at a later time.

"We expect to have the bulk of our matches during the spring, but the schedule is still on track for this fall," Fenwick updated. "I'm really looking for the kinds of student-athletes that demonstrate a commitment to athletics."