HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC – The St. Mary’s College of Maryland men’s and women’s tennis teams opened their campaign at the PTR Spring Tennis Fest with contrasting outcomes. The men’s team faced a challenging opponent in Lynchburg, succumbing to a 7-2 defeat, while the women’s team clinched their first victory of the season against the same rival, winning 5-2.
Men’s Team Battles Lynchburg
In the doubles segment, Boris Palmade and Nick Rohr of St. Mary’s College faced a tough match in the first doubles, narrowly losing in a tiebreak with a score of 7-4. The second doubles saw Keawe Johnson and Daoud Alkhalidi fall short, dropping their match 8-6. However, Andrew Hand and Max Esztergomi provided a glimmer of hope, securing a win in the third doubles match through a 10-8 tiebreak, marking the Seahawks’ first point of the day.
The singles matches underscored the competitive nature of the event. Boris Palmade, despite a valiant effort, lost the number one singles match 6-4, 6-2. Nick Rohr, showing remarkable resilience in the number two singles, staged a dramatic comeback to win in a tiebreaker, 11-9. Max Esztergomi and Keawe Johnson faced defeats in their respective matches, with Johnson’s comeback in the second set leading to a tiebreaker loss. Daoud Alkhalidi and Michael Shively also faced setbacks in their matches, leaving the Seahawks to reflect on a challenging day.
Women’s Team Secures First Season Win
On a more positive note, the women’s team showcased their skill and determination. The doubles matches set a victorious tone, with Cleopatra Solomon and Amber Manspeaker dominating the first doubles 8-1, and Giselle Harris and Lauren Lovejoy following suit with an 8-2 victory. Despite a loss in the third doubles, the Seahawks’ spirits remained high.
In singles play, Cleopatra Solomon and Amber Manspeaker continued their winning streaks, securing victories in the number one and two matches, respectively. Giselle Harris exhibited exceptional tenacity, overcoming a 5-2 deficit in the first set to win her match 7-5, 6-3. Lauren Lovejoy faced a challenging match but ultimately emerged victorious after a gripping third set. Melak Armstrong, despite a strong effort, could not overcome her Lynchburg opponent, falling in two sets.
Looking Ahead
Both teams are preparing for their next matches against Cornell College on March 11, also to be held in Hilton Head Island, SC. As the Seahawks adjust their strategies and focus on their strengths, they look forward to continuing their season with the same resilience and team spirit displayed during the opening day of the PTR Spring Tennis Fest.
