Northampton, MA - Smith College's tennis team showcased resilience and determination in their latest match against Hamilton on Saturday afternoon, marked by standout performances in both doubles and singles action. Smith took the loss but it was highlighted by strong performances.
- Ayla Hauser (Knoxville, TN/Bearden) and Natazya Simunyola teamed up for the first time in the number two doubles position, delivering a dominant performance for playing for the first time together.
- The pair displayed excellent chemistry and aggressive net play, securing a solid 6-3 victory over Hamilton's Muhan Cui and Pallavi Challapalli.
- In the third doubles match, Marielle Sauber (The Woodlands, TX/The John Cooper School) and Sabrina Wang (Beijing, China/Princeton) started off with a commanding 2-0 lead, using sharp volleys and quick reflexes at the net. However, Hamilton's duo of Qian and Turtledove fought back, winning five consecutive games to take a 5-2 lead. Despite a determined effort from Sauber and Wang, the Smith duo fell 6-4, giving Hamilton the crucial doubles point.
- In singles play, Smith mounted a strong comeback. Sophomore Sabrina Wang (Beijing, China/Princeton) earned
- Smith's first point of the day in a thrilling match against Sam Rainero. Wang found a perfect balance of aggression and consistency, securing a hard-fought tie-break victory and outlasting the steady play of Rainero.
- Smith's final point of the day came from first-year Natazya Simunyola, who impressed in her singles debut.
- Simunyola went undefeated in her first college dual match, overcoming a tough battle to earn a three-set win over Muhan Cui, sealing her victory with poise and determination.
Smith returns to action this weekend at they host the NEWITT this weekend from Friday until Sunday.
About Smith Athletics: Smith College is a NCAA Division III member of the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference that sponsors 11 intercollegiate sports. For more information log on to smithpioneers.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
