The Observer, March 30, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 22
Victories follow warm weather for women's tennis team
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While most students were enjoying the summer-like weather on Sunday, the women's tennis team was celebrating its success on the courts, as the Spartans defeated Marietta College 7-2. Sophomore Marta Worwag defeated Marietta's Lauren McKierman 6-0, 6-1 at number two singles and then joined forces with freshman Kristin Ko at number one doubles for an 8-4 victory.
"This match was most definitely about keeping a strong sense of mental control, deep focus, and concentration," Worwag said when asked about the keys to winning her singles match.
Also winning for the Spartans was Elaine Leung, who defeated Katie Chadwell, 6-2, 6-2 at number three singles and then partnered with freshman Kristen Gibbs for an 8-2 win at number two doubles.
As the weather begins to get hotter, conditioning becomes an important ingredient for victory.
"Coach [Nancy Rahn] had set the bar high for us when we started our season. We wanted to be in our tip top shape, which will put us steps ahead of the other schools," said senior Karyn Rafalke.
In addition to the weather, the Spartans have a rather young lineup as their team consists of five freshmen, four sophomores, and one senior. A youthful lineup may not be such a bad thing, though, according to Leung, a freshman.
"Being on a young team is nice because it gives us more of a team feel rather thanfeeling like there's just one person who's a 'boss,'" she said. "It lets us talk more easily amongst ourselves, and we relate to each other better."
The women will look to carry their winning momentum into their tri-match at the University of Rochester with Brandeis University tomorrow. The key to this weekend is going to be, according to Rafalke, "keeping in mind that we are just as good as all those other teams out there and not be paranoid about losing. We all need to expect to do our best, win or lose. That's what counts in the end."
Winning will require a complete team effort, said Worwag.
"Those of us who will not be playing will support the others through their undeniable struggles with enthusiastic cheers of support, while the active players will have to recall lessons learned from practice and play smart."
