Hello again,
With the consolation canceled due to rain, we began the day with three singles players and two teams left. Everyone played with tremendous effort and skill. Our two seniors both dropped competitive two set matches to seeded players. Hadley was right with Shannon Palmer from Willamette showing her improved movement and ability to build points. After dropping a lopsided first set to #2 seeded Sallie Katter from Linfield, Div remained calm and dug in for a second set battle that saw her up a break before being broken back late and losing a well played tiebreak.
Also in the round of 16, Alyssa took on one of the toughest unseeded players, Alli Marshall who played #2 for defending conference champion Whitworth last year. In a match that showcased Alyssa's terrific offensive baseline game she came away victorious, setting up a clash with top seeded Rachel Burns of Whitworth. Like Hadley and Div, Alyssa battled well and dominated in spells but overall Rachel proved too tough with her steady game and amazing court coverage winning in two close sets.
In doubles, Hadley and Emily suffered from a slow start and a hot Linfield team losing 8-2 in the quarters, though towards the end of the match they displayed their individual and team improvements. Alyssa and Div shook off a slow start themselves to put away a feisty Willamette team setting up a quarterfinal clash with last years finalists and #2 seeded Cat Goya and Megan Yoshimoto of Pacific. I'm not sure I've ever seen such a combination of great doubles and unbridled laughter from 4 players on the court at the same time. In the true spirit of enjoying the game and competition, both teams fought hard to gain the net and pressure the other. It was great to see Div and Alyssa play both good offense and defense as a team as they pulled ahead and won 8-5. This match mimicked the trip we have had so far with great tennis balanced by some of the most fun I've had with any of the tennis teams I've ever been involved with. I only wish I had a good enough command of the English language to explain how fun this team is.
Monday's singles semifinals and finals will be played at Linfield College followed by Div and Alyssa vs. Willamette's top team in the semi's with the finals to follow.
Thanks to the Rolstons, Kaurs, Olsons and Ly's for cheering us on so far and also to those of you who have called/texted or emailed us, the team appreciates all your support.
Best,
Coach
News from Coach John Hein
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Coaching Philosophy
To me, being a college student is about opportunity and growth. As a coach, I consider myself lucky to spend 4 years providing opportunity while nurturing growth. We use common goals, hard work, open communication, respect and accountability as means to building meaningful relationships and improving each player’s skill set on and off the court. This means embodying championship virtues to inspire athletic, academic and personal growth that not only happens while you are at Whitman, but becomes a part of who you are throughout life.