Northwestern Women’s Tennis season has been in full swing with several individual and team victories. Last week, the team picked up a comfortable 6-1 win at Mount Marty University on April 3. They also scored a win in the GPAC opening weekend.
“I am very proud of our team win against Hastings, the first victory over the Broncos in seven years! The match had a loud atmosphere but we showed we can get loud too and play through distractions,” senior Wynne Vandersall said.
The match at Hastings was an especially exciting one because the win came down to a one-match difference that eventually swung in their favor.
“I am especially proud of freshman Olya Furmanova who came back from a first set loss to win her singles match and clinch the team victory, despite having the noisy home crowd focused on her court.”
Vandersall has won nine of her single matches this season. Coach Jamie De Yong spoke of Vandersall’s achievements and dedication.
“Wynne Vandersall, our lone senior playing in the fourth position, has been a consistent positive force this season. Currently, she has won seven consecutive singles matches! She’s on a role and I am so proud of her and the leadership she has given to this young team.”
In having such a young team, De Jong is proud to see the growth of her players throughout the season. “I am most proud of their integrity, grace and humility. Tennis is tough because some win their matches and some lose. It can be conflicting to lose your own battle but as a team come out on top and visa versa. There are so many life lessons honed on a tennis court and I am so proud to see the growth happening,” De Jong said.
NW Women’s Tennis team has four matches left in the season, with the next couple at home on Friday, April 14 versus Midland University at 1 p.m. and Saturday, April 15 vs College of Saint Mary at 10:30 a.m.
“My hope is that we continue to trust our abilities and never give up even when the battle gets tough,” De Jong said.
