Scots fall in conference opener against Lawrence University
Maddie Psomas - Contributing Writer
The Monmouth College women’s tennis team competed against Lawrence University in a series of close matches. Despite challenging three-set battles in both singles and doubles, the Scots demonstrated their resilience and skill throughout the day.
Ivana Stefanova, Monmouth's standout player, shined in the first singles match. After dropping the first set, 4-6, she rallied back to claim the next two sets at 6-4 and 6-2, securing a hard-fought victory over Lawrence’s Anna Vanden Acker.
At the second singles match, Lawrence’s Clara Hill narrowly defeated Monmouth’s Natalie Labicki in a grueling three-set match, winning the first and third sets. Labicki’s determination was evident as she pushed Hills to the brink, but ultimately fell short.
Monmouth’s Natalie Holst secured a win in the fourth singles spot, prevailing over Lawrence’s Tess McGlenn in another intense three-set match.
In doubles play, Stefanova and Labicki teamed up to claim a 6-4 victory at first doubles, defeating Vanden Acker and Logan Kane from Lawrence. However, Monmouth’s second doubles team, Kimber Calvert and Natalie Holst, fell to Clara Hills and Tess McGlenn, 6-3. At third doubles, Alayna McKinley and Abigail Springer triumphed over Lawrence’s Fanta Jatta and Rachael Pofahl, winning 6-1.
“We knew it was going to be a long battle,” said Monmouth’s volunteer assistant tennis coach Emily Laughlin. “A lot of our matches went to three sets, and while we battled well, we need to work on keeping our composure. Overall, it was a good morning of tennis, and if we continue to play like this and improve, we’ll be in a good spot.”
Monmouth returns to action as they face Lake Forrest on Saturday in another Midwest Conference match.