Lady Cavs defeat Marywood 6-3

The women’s tennis team defeated CSAC opponent Marywood University 6-3 to remain undefeated this season.  The win on Tuesday, Sept. 7 also improved the Cavaliers to 2-0 in the CSAC Conference standings.

“Everyone played really well today and Marywood is probably one of the toughest teams that we play over the course of the season.  They are a top three or four team,” John Magee, head coach, said.

The Cavaliers started off the afternoon by taking two of three doubles matches and then won the first four singles matches before dropping the final two to Marywood.

After Katie Kennedy and Gabriela Durand emerged victorious in the No. 1 spot in doubles competition, with a score of  8-3, Alexis DiCamillo and Adriana Scotto fought their way to an 8-6 win in the second spot.

Scotto, a freshman undeclared major, credited juniors Michelle Lettmann and DiCamillo, along with her coaches, with helping her ease into the adjustment of playing tennis at the college level.

“Even though we’ve only had three matches so far, I think I’m adjusting to the college level of play,” Scotto said.  “Alexis, my doubles partner, has helped me learn different doubles strategies.”

Freshman Victoria Nastala and Lettmann lost to Marywood in the doubles competition but for Nastala, it is about becoming a part of the team and increasing her skill level.

“At first it was a big adjustment.  But thanks to Coach and all the girls on the team, they are making it much easier for me,” Nastala said.

Kennedy led off the singles competition with a 6-2, 6-1 victory, her second win of the day. Durand, playing in the No. 2 spot, won her singles match in three sets  of 6-4, 4-6, 6-0.

DiCamillo and Lettmann also won their singles matches for the Cavaliers, 6-3, 6-4 and 6-2, 6-1, respectively. Despite the strong start this year, the players feel that there is always room for improvement, for both the team and individually.

“I want to become a more consistent player and improve this year so I’m a stronger player for next season,” Scotto said.

Under the watchful eyes of head coach Magee and assistant coach Dina DiTaranto, the team seemed to respond to any advice given to them.  Even when Marywood challenged them, the Cavaliers never ceased fighting.

“This match pushed us,” Kennedy, a communication major, said.  “But now we know that we have the ability to have a good season.”

Opposed to last year, which was not one of Cabrini’s better years, a strong start in 2010 is huge for the team.

“This team has more potential than last year,” Scotto said.

“Last year was a downer for us,” Magee said. “Now we are a 3-0 team.”

The team’s success so far appears to only be a sign for what could happen as the season progresses.

“This match really shows how far we have come,” Magee said.  “It’s a good win for us.