Even with several players completely new to tennis, the Immaculata girls’ tennis team was competitive with a much larger school in their first match of the season on Monday afternoon, winning two of the nine matches at Mill Valley and forcing two more to tiebreakers.
IHS head coach Manuel Hernandez said he liked the competitive fire he saw out of his team, and he believes they can use their experience from Monday and in a couple of upcoming JV matches to learn within the context of a match and continue improving.
“The girls played really hard,” Hernandez said. “We’ve got a young team ... and I think they’re about where I can expect them, and maybe even a bit better.”
Sophomore Olivia Wilson and freshman Sydney Simek collected the Raiders’ victories. Wilson beat Lindsey Felshaw 8-4 in the No. 1 singles slot, and Simek beat Olivia Beashore 8-5 in the No. 5 position.
“Sydney has a good forehand and a strong will to win...” Hernandez said. “(Olivia) is hitting the ball very well, getting herself in better position most of the time, and picking up her game every time she sets foot onto the court.”
The Raiders’ two tiebreakers both came courtesy of junior Jennifer Gilbert, who lost a heartbreaker 8-7 (8-6) to Lauren Shurley at No. 2 singles. She also teamed with Madi Rea at No. 2 doubles to stay close the entire way against the team of Joylyn Kennedy and Olivia Frey, but they fell 8-7 (7-2).
“Gilbert continues to be a strength of energy, in both her singles and doubles play,” Hernandez said. “She maintains a positive attitude all the time. ... Her singles was a very close one against Shurley and I was very pleased with her attitude and desire to win. She and Madi also did well in doubles and came close.”
Hernandez also mentioned the improvement of No. 3 singles player Theresa Hernandez and the No. 3 doubles team of Allison Sowle and Elizabeth Dean. Each of the matches in those slots were close as well, each finishing at 8-5.
“Theresa has got a very good serve and forehand; she only needs to build up the confidence level and I think these will be tremendous assets for her game...” Manuel Hernandez said. “And Allie and Elizabeth have great attitudes and had a fine effort in their doubles match.”
The Raiders’ next varsity match will be next Tuesday, Sept. 7, when they host Lansing at Brewer Park at 3:30 p.m.
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