SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The Santa Clara women's tennis team returns from a hiatus in their dual season matches to face Fresno State on Sat., Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. The Broncos' two matches scheduled for last weekend – UC Davis and Cal Poly – were postponed due to rain.
"It was disappointing not to get the matches in this weekend but we're looking forward to playing Fresno on Saturday," said head coach Ben Cabell. Junior Delphine Rouvillois backed up this sentiment, noting the extra time this allowed them to get ready for this match. "Our preparation has been really consistent; it will be fun to get back to competition and give our best shot against the Bulldogs," said Rouvillois.
The Broncos are 2-1, having lost their most recent match to San Jose State on Feb. 1, and with wins against Academy of Art and Sonoma State.
Fresno State as a team has recently fallen from the ITA Tennis top-75 rankings, but they carry No. 43 ranked singles player Sophie Watts. The Bulldogs bring a solid résumé, rolling on a four-match win streak and currently sitting at 4-2.
"They're a really good team and we're not starting off with any easy matches," said Cabell. "It's going to be a tough match, and we think we can compete well."
The Broncos so far have had strong play from the doubles teams, which are 6-1 on the season and have captured the initial point in each of the team's three matches. But a total team effort is required to take down the solid squads.
"We want to continue getting our new players some experience, which is going to benefit us the most," said Cabell.
"Although Fresno State is a tough opponent and has some great players, I have so much belief in our team. Everyone in our team can compete hard and make the difference this weekend," added Rouvillois. "The goal is really to play the best we can and incorporate all the work we have been doing at practice. Stay positive no matter what and it should be a great battle!"
Check back with the SCU women's tennis team on Twitter, Facebook and SantaClaraBroncos.com.
Go Broncos!
