BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The University of Central Arkansas tennis program continued its recent success as they claimed their second victory in the past three duals.
The Bears defeated the Samford University Bulldogs 5-2 in the first weekend with only one dual on the schedule.
UCA 5 Samford 2
Singles:
UCA dominated in the singles portions of the match as they took four of the six. Sophomore Fuka Nonoyama began the push as she defeated the Bulldogs No. 2, Cindy Oest. Nonoyama pushed through with ease as she won the match in two sets, 6-0, 6-3. Finishing up shortly behind her was junior Yada Vasupongchai. The Southland Conference Player of the Week continued her hot streak as she took down the No. 4 6-4, 6-4.
Since the Bears had claimed the doubles point, they were only one win away from that clinching victory. Coming into the matchup, freshman Jaeun Lee was 4-1 in the spring season. So when she came up big to claim the clinching victory, it was no surprise as she won 6-3, 6-2. Finishing out the singles side of things was freshman Sumomo Hamanaga, as she played in the longest match of the day. She won the first set 6-1, lost the second 6-3 before she rallied to own the third set 10-2.
Doubles:
The Bears started the match in decisive fashion as they claimed the doubles point with two victories. Sophomore Chunxi Xin and Nonoyama boasted a 6-3 victory over the No. 1 doubles squad of Samford. Shortly after, sophomore Mei Ishimura and Vasupongchai got in on the fun as they won their match 6-3.
Up next, the Bears will get the chance to stay in Arkansas as they head to Jonesboro. UCA will face the likes of Arkansas State and Southeast Missouri State University in this mini invitational. The doubleheader starts this Saturday with a time still set to be determined.
Quote from coach Casey Wharton:
"It was a very positive day with a great overall result. We were hoping to down here and play two matches, but the fact we were able to play one against a good team is positive."
"Everyone played well and they cheered well. The effort and energy was great. Overall it was a very positive experience."
