The Hillsdale women’s tennis team clinched back-to-back victories in its first two G-MAC victories this weekend, ending a three match losing streak.
The Chargers earned a 7-0 win against Kentucky Wesleyan College March 23, followed by a 6-1 victory in their first-ever competition against Thomas More University March 24.
“The team had a great weekend with our two match win and it’s a great feeling to start our conference season undefeated so far,” junior Libby McGivern said.
Dannhauser said she did not consider it one of their toughest weekends.
“It was a great way to start, but it will only get tougher from here. I think the team is improving every weekend so hopefully we will be ready when we play against the strongest teams,” Dannhuaser said.
The Chargers did not concede a single game in doubles play on Saturday. The No. 1 duo of sophomore Megan Hackman and senior Melanie Zampardo, alongside the No. 2 pairing of junior Courtney Rittel and freshman Ane Dannhauser, each secured 6-0 victories, taking the doubles point from the Panthers decisively.
With Dannhauser leading the charge at No. 1 singles with a 6-1, 6-0 win over her opponent, Zampardo, Mcgivern, Formentin, Spinazze, and Hackman followed suit, ensuring a clean sweep without dropping a match.
Riding the momentum into Sunday, the Chargers faced Thomas More, dominating all three doubles matches from the start.
At No. 1 doubles, Hackman and Zampardo teamed up against the Saints to earn a 6-2 win, laying the groundwork for another successful match. The Chargers maintained their lead in singles, with Rittel and Dannhauser winning 6-1, and McGivern and Formentin achieving a 6-0 victory.
As victories in singles play came swiftly, with Dannhauser, Zampardo, McGivern, Spinazze, and Rittel winning their matches and allowing the Chargers to secure the overall victory.
“A lot of us were able to go 4-0 on the weekend, which always feels good and doesn’t happen often,” Zampardo said.
In particular, McGivern commended Spinazze for her performance this weekend.
“Bella hasn’t gotten to see a ton of match play this semester, but she played in the lineup both matches and won with ease,” McGivern said. “She really demonstrated who we are as a team, because no matter where you’re at — in or out of the lineup — you play a role and are constantly working hard.”
With a 2-0 start in G-MAC play, the Chargers aim to extend their winning streak in upcoming matches at Cedarville University on March 29 and Ashland University on March 30.
“It feels really good having a successful start to conference,” Zampardo said. “It’ll be exciting building up from here each week going forward.”
McGivernsaid she is as hopeful as Zampardo.
“Overall everyone did amazing and I know we’re going to carry this success into next weekend,” McGivern said.
