Updated as of 10:41 a.m. to include additional photos.
The Elon University women’s tennis team started their doubleheader against Belmont Abbey on a high note, winning 7-0 this Saturday morning. It was a much-needed performance after losing 7-0 to Wake Forest almost two weeks ago, and a strong way to begin play at the Jimmy Powell Tennis Center. It was its first game of the season at their home courts after playing their home opener indoors at the Piedmont Tennis Center.
In doubles, Elon withheld multiple comeback attempts by the Crusaders in each of the first two games. Freshman Lisa Kranec and junior Simone Bergeron won the first set, while freshman Heidi Bulger and junior Madison Cordisco battled back to win the second set.
Senior Miray Konar and junior Helen Sarikulaya capped off the doubles round, winning via a tiebreaker 7-6.
Kranec said everyone was ready to compete after losing to Wake Forest in the previous match. She believed the team was revamped heading into today.
“We were all really excited to come out and play at home, especially getting to be outdoors on the court,” Kranec said. “I think we were renewed, refreshed, and played with really good energy. We knew if we stayed positive, we would take it.”
Kranec said the energy from everyone was a big part of the team’s success today. She noted that as a freshman, it creates a positive mentality.
“It’s gonna help as I continue to grow with the team, and as we all grow together,” Kranec said. “Having a good mindset of building each other up and not getting too lost in our ups and downs makes our day more positive.”
Elon’s success in doubles gave every player a winning record in doubles matches for the season. They then took control in singles with a mix of forehands and returns, winning every set 2-0.
Cordisco, Sarikulaya and Kranec were the first three to win their sets, clinching the victory for the Phoenix. Cordisco won her set 6-1, while Sarikulaya and Kranec each won their matches 6-2.
Kranec’s 6-2 victory sealed the win in Elon’s first game on its own court.
Kranec said it was particularly nice to play at home for the first time this season and for the team to perform at a high level.
“There’s a certain pride that comes with winning on our own courts out here,” Kranec said. “I think it helps us out there.”
With the win, Elon moves to 4-1 on the season. The Phoenix won the second half of its doubleheader today at 2:30 p.m., 7-0.