Jordan Karnes
Contributing Writer
Heading into this weekend with a solid winning record, the Springfield women’s tennis team is preparing for the New England Women’s Intercollegiate Tennis Tournament (NEWITT). Located in South Hadley, the tournament takes place over a three-day period.
The way the NEWITT works is that a team of two plays doubles and then singles against the same two people from the doubles match. Whatever team wins two out of three emerges victorious, so either doubles and a singles match or both singles to move on to the next round.
This weekend will be the final NEWITT for captains Sam Carney, Siana Green and Vanessa Senecal, along with seniors Amy Buttarazzi and Erin Woodbury. Coming into this weekend the Pride have captured four wins, including a huge home conference win over NEWMAC rival Smith College.
The women’s tennis squad’s closest match that they have played so far this season was their opening match against Salve Regina, where they captured a 6-3 victory.
“We have performed well; what I like most and probably goes with performance is the fact that our team chemistry and attitudes have been great,” said head coach Toby Coffin.
Senior captain Sam Carney has stood out so far this season for the Pride. As the Pride’s No. 1 singles player, Carney has pulled out wins in tough matches in addition to dominating in other matches.
“Sam Carney is always a tough competitor and difficult to play against, but all our players will gain valuable experience from the tournament,” said Coffin.
Freshman Melanie Thulin, who earned a singles spot in her first year, has performed at a high level as well. With an even 3-3 record at fifth & six singles, Thulin has battled all season long.
With an overall record of 5-2 at third and fourth singles, senior Erin Woodbury has the best individual singles record so far this season heading into the NEWITT.
“Being able to win doubles and one singles match is very doable for all three teams going to the NEWITT. Not only are we physically ready, but also our positive energy out on the courts and great coaching advice in between games gives us a great advantage mentally,” said junior Sydney Streimer.
With a lot of confidence and the will to continue fighting, the Pride head into the three-day invitational this weekend with a 4-3 overall record.