The Blue Devils have been on an unstoppable streak, sweeping every match in their path this weekend. After defeating No. 10 Pepperdine on Friday, they secured two more victories against Virginia Tech and N.C. Central on Monday. The team’s cohesion and determination were evident as they only dropped one match all day. Senior Ellie Coleman highlighted the team's unity, both on and off the court, while Head Coach Jamie Ashworth identified areas for improvement, particularly in doubles play. The upcoming ITA Kickoff presents a significant challenge as they face tough opponents like South Carolina.

Energized and Focused, Duke Prepares to Conquer the ITA Kickoff

Building Unbreakable Team Spirit

The success of the Duke tennis squad can be attributed to the remarkable chemistry among its members. Senior Ellie Coleman emphasized the importance of having a supportive and cohesive group. This camaraderie was on full display during the Virginia Tech match when Coleman faced Laima Frosch on court four. A contentious moment occurred when a point was disputed, leading to a heated exchange involving both coaches. Despite losing that point, Coleman channeled her frustration into intense focus, not dropping a single game thereafter. Her subsequent 6-0, 6-0 victory against N.C. Central exemplified her resilience and drive.Even though the match against Frosch wasn’t completed due to Shavit Kimchi’s clinching win on court three, Coleman’s performance demonstrated her ability to turn adversity into motivation. She explained, "It’s not uncommon that such incidents happen in tennis. They give me the right kind of energy and motivation." This mindset reflects the team’s overall approach—using challenges to fuel their competitive spirit.

Addressing Doubles Play Challenges

While the singles matches showcased the team's dominance, Head Coach Jamie Ashworth pointed out areas needing attention, specifically in doubles play. During the Virginia Tech match, the duo of Katie Codd and Ava Krug initially led 3-0 but lost six consecutive games, ultimately dropping the match 4-6. Ashworth noted, "We got off to not a great start again, and we just have to be tougher in the doubles."However, the Blue Devils made significant improvements in the following match against N.C. Central, finishing the doubles segment in just 24 minutes. Ashworth acknowledged the need for refinement, stating, "We just got to make sure that we clean up some stuff with our doubles play." This focus on continuous improvement underscores the team’s commitment to excellence across all aspects of the game.

Strategic Lineup Adjustments

One of the strategies employed by the coaching staff involved rotating players to find the optimal lineup. For instance, senior Emma Jackson shifted from court one to court two during the Virginia Tech match, while freshman Eleana Yu took her place in the evening match against N.C. Central. Ashworth emphasized flexibility, saying, "I’ve told them the lineup doesn’t really matter. Just go out there and do what you need to do. We want to give people different opportunities at different spots."This approach allows players to adapt and grow in various roles, fostering versatility and depth within the team. It also ensures that everyone remains sharp and ready to contribute, regardless of their position. As the season progresses, these strategic adjustments will be crucial in maintaining the team’s momentum and preparing for tougher competitions.

Preparation for the ITA Kickoff

With the ITA Kickoff approaching, the Blue Devils are set to face formidable opponents. Their first match is against No. 20 South Carolina, followed by a potential encounter with either No. 9 Virginia or New Mexico. Ashworth’s focus is clear: "We’ve got to play South Carolina first." The team’s recent performances have built a strong foundation of confidence and momentum, which will be vital in this high-stakes tournament.The preparation for these matches involves honing skills, addressing weaknesses, and maintaining mental readiness. The team’s unyielding spirit and strategic mindset position them well for the challenges ahead. As they head into Charlottesville, Va., the Blue Devils are ready to showcase their prowess and continue their winning streak.