After defeating Franklin Pierce in their home opener, the women’s tennis team swept Molloy University, 7-0. Each player contributed to the shutout against the Lions during three doubles and six singles matches.
Freshman Victoria Togores said the environment that her teammates have welcomed her into helps bring out her best on the court. Along with the support from coaches, she said she is confident that their training will guide them to success.
“Being so far away from home and having a team that makes me feel at home is priceless,” said Togores. “I am really lucky and immensely grateful to them and the university.”
The first pair of doubles included junior Valentinna Ferrarini and senior Karim Carreras, who won their match 6-2. Then came senior Risako Umekuni and Togores, who started off strong and finished their match, 6-1. The final doubles,freshmen Leni Bischofand Laura Ortner defeated the Lions, 6-1.
Continuing their lead, New Haven had an all-around victory during their singles. Ferrarini secured the first singles win with a score of 6-2 in the first set, and6-1 in the second set.In the second singles,Carreras swept Molloy’s Isabella Fortzleza, and won both sets6-0. Risako faced the Lions’ Alice Fartushynska, nearly sweeping the match. Risako won the first set 6-0 and finished the second set with 6-1.
In the fourth singles, Togores faced Molloy’s Ashley Bonilla and won both sets with scores of 6-1 and 6-0. Togores’ doubles partner, Ortner, finished the fifth set with the same set scores against Julia Salazar. Adding the final point for New Haven, Agustina Rivera played the final singles match shutting out the Lions’ Taylor Gunnip, 6-0 in both sets.
Togores, now standing undefeated in the 24-25 season, said the team will continue to work hard toward their goal of winning the conference title.
“I think we have to continue as we have been doing, training with desire, motivation, attitude, and joy,” said Togores. “Sure, there are things we still need to improve, but I am sure we have the best coaches to push us to reach our best level.”
New Haven’s win over Molloy leaves them at 2-0 overall and 1-0 in conference play. The team then goes on at 1 p.m. on Wednesday to Garden City, New York, to face Adelphi University. For more information, visit NewHavenChargers.com.
