ROME -- The Hawks fell to Georgia Southwestern, 5-4, Saturday afternoon to begin the season.

With the loss, Shorter opens the year 0-1, while the Canes improved to 2-0 on the young season with the win.

The Hawks trailed after doubles, 2-1, earning a win at number two as the pair of Malik Yawar and Gregoire Vincent recorded an 8-6 victory. In singles, Shorter came back to close the deficit, getting wins at one, two, and four. Jose Moreno-Manzano notched the win 6-1, 6-2. Talha Zubair won 6-1, 6-2. And Vincent tallied a 6-2, 7-6 win.

The Hawks are back in action Wednesday, February 7, as they open GSC play at Valdosta State.