Spartans Shine at Tribe Invitational Despite Tough Competition

The UNC Greensboro (UNCG) women's tennis team concluded its fall opening weekend at the Tribe Invitational on Sunday, showcasing their talent and determination against formidable opponents from William & Mary, Cincinnati, and Richmond.

Elevating Performance on the Court

Doubles Dominance Challenged

The Spartans faced stiff competition in the doubles matches, with Olivia Gallagher and Raegan Mitchell falling to Ine Stange and Sia Chaudry of William & Mary, 6-3. Alexandra Dodashev and Sydney Bly also lost to Elizabeth Novak and Lara Bakhaya of Richmond, 6-2, and to Morgan Pyrz and Sakuraka Wantanbe of Cincinnati, 6-2. Ella Olexa and Elisabeth Birkevold were defeated by Parker Debnam and Mira Kernagis of William & Mary, 6-1, and by Abby Lee and Lucy Webber of Richmond, 6-2.

Singles Showdown

In the singles matches, the Spartans showcased their individual talents. Gallagher lost to Sofia Barbulescu of Richmond, 6-1, 6-0, while Dodashev fell to Alessandra Anghel of William & Mary, 6-2, 7-5, and Callie Flanagan of Cincinnati, 6-4, 6-4. However, Gallagher later defeated Flanagan of Cincinnati, 6-0, 2-6 (11-9). Raegan Mitchell struggled against Ine Stange of William & Mary, 3-6, 6-1 (10-3), and Lucy Webber of Richmond, 6-0, 6-4. Luna Urso was defeated by Mira Kernagis of William & Mary, 6-1, 6-0, and Emma Fernald of William & Mary, 6-3, 6-4, but Birkevold managed to defeat Fernald, 2-6, 6-2 (10-5). Birkevold then lost to Lainey O'Neil of Richmond, 6-2, 6-3. Olexa faced a tough challenge, losing to Isabel Pacheco of Cincinnati, 6-0, 6-2, but she bounced back to defeat Amy Walsh of Richmond, 7-5, 4-6 (10-2). Gallagher's singles campaign ended with a loss to Webber of Richmond, 6-3, 7-5.

Resilience and Growth

Despite the challenges faced, the Spartans demonstrated their resilience and growth throughout the tournament. Olivia Gallagher, Elisabeth Birkevold, and Ella Olexa each managed to secure a singles victory, showcasing their individual strengths and potential. The team's performance at the Tribe Invitational serves as a valuable learning experience, preparing them for the upcoming Georgia Southern Fall Shootout.