The women’s tennis team completed a decisive victory over Bridgewater State University on Wednesday, winning 9-0 in its second triumph of the season. Wesleyan swept all nine matches, winning every set that it played, to give Bridgewater State its first loss of this fall.
The six singles and three doubles matches were all played quickly and efficiently, proving Wesleyan’s talent and resilience after a tough loss to Williams last week. Sarah Miller ’12 played number one singles for the first time, moving up from her spot at number two in Wesleyan’s previous matches against Rhode Island College and Williams. Only a freshman, Miller has played like a veteran and is already earning well-deserved respect. This was the Cards’ first home win of the season, giving them a 2-1 overall record after beating the second non-NESCAC team.
Miller won both of her sets 6-1, 6-1 to prevail in her match and assert herself overall as an integral part of the team. She took over the first rank with confidence and poise and, while at times she seemed visibly troubled by her play, she truly represented Wes in an impressive manner. Madalina Ursa ’09 (6-2, 6-0), Meredith Holmes ’10 (6-0, 6-2), Casey Simchik ’10 (6-4, 6-0), and Linda McDougal ’11 (6-0, 6-0) all also moved up a spot and succeeded in their new positions.
After only three matches this fall, all ten women on the roster have represented Wesleyan, with both Hannah Berkman ’12 and Ana Alvarado ’12 being inserted into the lineup for the first time. They both had success, with a combined win in doubles, and Berkman also won her singles match 6-1, 6-0. The other two doubles partners also had strong showings, with Miller/Ursu winning 8-2 and Holmes/McDougal 8-6.
The team looked drastically different from its previous two matches, with three seniors sitting out after some unresolved matters with the coaches. Currently, the outcome of the situation has yet to be determined. The unfortunate circumstances did highlight a few positives, though, showcasing the depth of this team and giving the freshmen some necessary experience.
“From the doubles’ wins through the singles, every player competed hard and intelligently,” said Coach Ken Alrutz. “I was particularly happy that three first-year players shone in the starting lineup.”
Wesleyan hasn’t seen much NESCAC action this season and won’t until the spring. The Cardinals were only scheduled to face off against their biggest rivals and will have to wait to compete against other NESCAC schools. Wesleyan lost to Williams 0-9 on Sept. 16 and will play Amherst on Oct. 12. Alrutz sees the fall as preparation for the contests in the spring. He pointed out the success of last year, with the women finishing 5-3 against NESCAC teams and qualifying for conference tournament for the first time ever. Veteran Ursu agrees that the fall matches can be beneficial to the team.
“Playing non-NESCAC teams can be productive as long as they pose a challenge to us,” Ursu said.
Yesterday was challenging despite Wesleyan’s commanding win. Many of the women commented on the different style of play that Bridgewater State brought to the courts. At times, it was evidently frustrating because some players were forced to change their techniques and strategy in order to address Bridgewater’s methods. In the end, it was clear that the Cardinals still had the upper hand, and the change in play may be a refreshing reminder about what different teams can bring.
This weekend, Miller and Ursu head to MIT to compete in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Championships. The three-day competition is a New England Regional tournament by invitation-only. The tennis program is extremely proud that both women will individually represent Wesleyan at this event.
The women’s team has a couple weeks off before its next team match. On October 9, the Cards will face Babson College at home before traveling to Amherst that Sunday.
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