In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the Navy women’s tennis team secured a decisive 7-0 victory against Loyola in their recent Patriot League match. Following a challenging weekend that saw them lose to Army, the Midshipmen bounced back with vigor, sweeping all doubles and singles matches. Coach Keith Puryear praised his team's focus on improvement and execution of key strategies.
Notable performances included Emily Tannenbaum's undefeated streak in singles and Kate Lee's consistent victories. The win brings Navy's record to 14-10 overall and 4-1 in the league, continuing their strong tradition against Loyola with an unbroken series record of 17-0. Looking ahead, Navy anticipates a tough match against Boston University on Senior Day.
Doubles Dominance Sets the Tone
The Navy women's tennis team started their match against Loyola with commanding victories in all three doubles matches, setting a powerful tone for the remainder of the game. Sophomore Manci Pal and freshman Emma Gu led the charge with a swift 6-0 win over Jessica Bodewes and Christine Richiez. This momentum was carried forward by senior Emily Tannenbaum and sophomore Olivia Fermo, who triumphed similarly on the top court. Lastly, senior captain Kate Lee and sophomore Julia Lee completed the sweep with another resounding victory.
This doubles performance was not just about securing early points; it demonstrated the strategic depth and teamwork within the Navy squad. Each pairing executed precise tactics, leveraging their strengths to outmaneuver their opponents. Coach Puryear highlighted how these victories were rooted in focused preparation throughout the week, emphasizing the importance of attention to detail. The collective effort in doubles provided a solid foundation for success in the subsequent singles matches.
Singles Success Clinches Victory
Transitioning into singles action, the Navy women showcased their individual prowess, maintaining the dominance established in doubles. Emily Tannenbaum swiftly dispatched her opponent with a flawless 6-0, 6-0 performance at the No. 1 flight. Rookie Molly Bellia followed suit with a convincing 6-0, 6-1 win, while Kate Lee sealed Navy’s 14th victory of the season with a decisive 6-1, 6-0 result. Freshman Grace Li and Emma Gu further bolstered the team's lead with impressive wins of their own.
Each player contributed significantly to this comprehensive victory, reflecting the depth of talent within the Navy roster. Parvathi Shanker capped off the day with a hard-fought battle against Elena Hartley, demonstrating resilience and skill. These performances underscored the team's commitment to excellence, as evidenced by Tannenbaum nearing a program single-season record in doubles wins. With their sights set on Boston University, the Midshipmen aim to carry this momentum into their next challenge, honoring their seniors in what promises to be an exciting home match.