After compiling a 22-match win streak and a 31-4 record, NIU men’s tennis player Willy Gali capped his senior campaign by winning MAC Player of the Year on Tuesday.

A senior, Gali became the first NIU player to win the player of the year award. The Barcelona native also became the third straight Huskie to take home the Jack Vredevelt Sportsmanship Award, following Raymond van Wasbeek in 2003 and Juan Pablo Barriga in 2004.

“With awards, it’s never a sure thing,” NIU coach Pontus Hiort said. “But it was pretty clear cut this year, especially when Willy beat [Ball State’s Matt] Baccarani in the conference tournament for the second time.”

Fellow NIU senior Erick Martinez earned Second Team All-MAC for the third straight year despite multiple injuries, including offseason hernia surgery.

Although he was anticipating the player of the year accolade, Gali was surprised by the sportsmanship award.

“I’m pretty calm on the court,” Gali said. “I try to play as clean as I can and try to respect everyone. I’m just really happy. It’s been a great season and career.”

Western Michigan’s Alex Birchmeier won MAC Freshman of the Year with a 23-9 record at No. 5 singles.

Taking home MAC Coach of the Year honors for the 13th time was Ball State’s Bill Richards.

Gali insisted there will be no more tennis after this year.

“This is the end,” Gali said, “I’m done with competitive tennis. It’s really hard to go pro. I’ll still play for fun, but now I’m going to focus on my career in engineering.”