Nov. 13, 2008

BEAUMONT - The Lamar University tennis program will host their annual banquet tonight in the Cardinal Club Room at the Montagne Center with Lamar tennis greats Cathy Beene and Linda Rupert Thomas as the key note speakers.

Beene and Rupert-Thomas formed a dynamic duo for Lamar University in the early 1970's, capping their careers with the 1973 NAIAW Doubles title. They are the only women's tennis players in school history to have captured a national title. The pair also won the 1972 and 1973 Texas AIAW doubles crowns.

Individually the two players reigned over the Texas AIAW singles, winning championships in 1970, 71, 72 and 73. Beene claimed the championships in 1970 and 71 while Rupert-Thomas was the victor in 72 and 73.

Since their time at Lamar University, no women's tennis players have been able to duplicate the dominance of these two individuals.

The banquet begins at 6 p.m. with drinks and appetizers along with a silent auction. A live player auction will follow dinner and the speakers.