The Norwin boys tennis team was hit hard by graduation, but the Knights hope that the rebuilding process will be a quick one this season.

Norwin, which finished 5-7 last season, graduated six players, including first singles player John Babyak, second singles player Lee Archinal, Chris Zentner, Bill Boyer, Nick Gigliotti and Aaron Blackman.

"This year and next year, we'll pretty much have to rebuild," coach Shawn Vimislicky said. "Losing all those guys all at once just kills you."

"He's probably our hardest hitter and most consistent player," the coach said.

"He's had limited experience with singles though."

Seniors Phil Gigliotti and Jordan Hantz, both doubles players in 2007, return to the lineup, as well.

Also expected to be in the starting lineup are seniors Chris Kukic and Frank Babik.

"I'm hoping we can do as well as last season. If those guys can get some experience and do as well as we did last year, that will be a good season," Vimislicky said.

"Hopefully we can get outside this week and get some challenge matches in to figure out the rest of the starting lineup."

Norwin again will compete in Section 1-AAA with Connellsville, Franklin Regional, Greensburg Salem, Hempfield, Latrobe and Penn-Trafford.

"Connellsville lost a lot. Penn-Trafford lost a good many guys, and Franklin Regional lost their one and two players," Vimislicky said.

"Latrobe should be solid, top to bottom. Hempfield, Latrobe and Franklin Regional will probably be at the top spots."

Norwin will open the season with a section contest against Greens-burg Salem on Monday, at 3:30 p.m.