During their first competitive matches of the season, the Lady Blues faced a double header against University of Arkansas Fort Smith and Drury University at an indoor tennis complex, Springfield MO,. The Lady Blues came up short against both teams with a 8-1 loss in day one of competition against UAFS and a wipe out 9-0 loss on day two of play to nationally ranked #22 Drury. As this was the first of many matches for the lady Blues, tennis coach Dave Alden was eager to not make this losing streak in to a habit. "We have six freshmen on the team this year...it is expected for them to play a little tighter and be nervous in these first few matches, but it's important that they learn quickly so they can compete in a college level environment." Said Alden. " we need them to adapt quickly to the atmosphere and pressure of college tennis so we are ready in time for April when our MIAA conference matches begin."
A huge effect on matches are essentially down to atmosphere ad support. Some like to play to the roar of a crowd, while others prefer silence and not a lot of attention being drawn to them. However in college sport, it's all about going loud or going home. The Lady Blues freshmen were noticeably tame for a college level team.
Energy carries so much weight on the outcome of a match and that it is why it is so important now more so than ever that the freshman members of WU tennis are generating some cheer not only from the crowds but also from their team mates.
Hopefully by April you will be able to hear us cheering from all the way across campus! Stay tuned!
