April 27, 2023
Led by All-Conference Players, Warriors in Finals
By Francisco Claudio
Energy.
It's one of the main points that coaches bring up that can be a significant advantage early in a match.
Well, the Westcliff women's tennis team had to overcome some low energy at the start, but quickly picked it up and rose to the occasion to cruise past Westmont College in the semifinals of the GSAC Tennis Tournament, 4-0.
Assistant Coach Michael Longanecker was adamant about what he wanted to see in the Championship match tomorrow: "Energy for sure. College doubles are so fast by the time you blink you could be down 4-1, and then you're like I should get my energy up."
"I don't think we were as loud and energetic as we could have been from the very start, so we need to step on the court tomorrow, ready to scream our lungs out."
But the Warriors quickly took control and picked up the level of their game led by the 2023 All-Conference players.
Doubles No.1 Marielena Muench/ Emilse Ruiz bageled their opponents and were the first to get off the court.
Doubles No.3 Kanon Sorakubo/ Cristina Hurtado allowed only one game for the 6-1 win that also gave Westcliff the doubles point.
Then it was the GSAC All-Conference singles No. 2 Ruize who got it done in straight sets 6-2, 6-0.
Singles No.4 Alessia Radu followed right after 6-1, 6-2.
Radu talked about her win after the match: "Today I felt great, honestly I think it wasn't as hot as expected. It was windy so it was kind of fresh and it was a tough first match."
"We had to get used to the conditions and I think we did a great job."
As the results of the other matches started coming in, there was a lot of optimism about the Warriors advancing to the final.
"Tomorrow we're going to have great energy and team spirit and a win," said Radu.
Singles No.1 Muench locked in her win in straight sets 6-3, 6-2 and it was over.
"They're very focused," said Longanecker. "They know this is a big opportunity and their eyes are on this championship."
Westcliff has one more hurdle to get over and it will be Menlo College in Thursday's match.
The match will begin at 10 AM.