In preparation for an ambitious spring season, North Carolina Central University's women’s tennis team is gearing up for a series of matches that promise both challenges and opportunities. The Eagles are set to kick off their campaign with a doubleheader on Monday, January 20th, facing Virginia Tech at 1:30 p.m. followed by a match against Duke University at 6 p.m. This schedule reflects the team's determination to improve upon last year’s record, where they finished with six wins despite numerous injuries. Overcoming adversity, the team secured victories over North Carolina A&T, Gardner-Webb, and Shaw. The fall season saw the Eagles participating in six tournaments, including their own NCCU Invitational, which hosted four teams. Hampton University and UNC Wilmington, two of these tournament participants, will be hosting NC Central during the spring.
Spring Season Kicks Off with High-Stakes Matches
In the heart of a vibrant academic environment, the women’s tennis team from North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is poised to begin its spring season with high expectations. On a crisp January day, the Eagles will travel to Durham, North Carolina, to take on Atlantic Coast Conference opponents Virginia Tech and Duke University. The doubleheader event will see the Eagles first face Virginia Tech at 1:30 p.m., followed by a challenging encounter with the No. 11 ranked Blue Devils at 6 p.m.
The team returns four experienced players, led by senior Lafi Joao, who brings leadership and maturity. Junior Alejandra Hidalgo Vega, an All-MEAC first-team player, will be a key asset after posting an impressive 14-6 singles record last season. Sophomores Gabriela Mejia Arenas and Patricia Palencia add depth, while newcomers Valeria San Miguel Soria, Mariana Zottoli, and Valentina de Aquino Monsanto bring fresh energy and talent. San Miguel Soria, in particular, arrives with valuable experience from her time at the University of North Alabama.
Head coach Sofia Rachi Cucalon enters her third season with renewed focus, supported by graduate assistant Rachelle Starreveld and volunteer assistant Eric Douglass. Together, they aim to guide the Eagles toward greater success in both conference and non-conference play.
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From a spectator's perspective, this upcoming season presents an exciting opportunity to witness the growth and resilience of the NCCU women’s tennis team. The combination of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers sets the stage for memorable matches and potential breakthroughs. As the Eagles face formidable opponents like Duke and Virginia Tech, fans can expect to see a team that is not only competitive but also committed to overcoming challenges. This season promises to be a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire squad.