Mary Washington women’s tennis team serves up a win against Grinnell College at home
2 min read
Mary Washington’s win included a five-point comeback in No. 2 doubles and winning a game in a 6-0 sweep during No. 2 singles. UMW hopes to carry this momentum into their match Friday. | Photo courtesy of Clint Often
by IZZY SCHEFERMANN
Staff Writer
The No. 34 ranked University of Mary Washington women’s tennis team powered past Grinnell College with a 5–2 victory March 21 at home, improving to 6–1 on the season.
Despite dropping the doubles point, the Eagles responded with a dominant singles performance, winning five of six matches to secure the comeback win.
Freshmen Isabella Rotaru and Sarah Sandoval Banuelos provided the lone doubles victory for Mary Washington, battling back from a 1–4 deficit to win 6–4 at No. 2 doubles. The pair credited their resilience and energy for the turnaround.
“We got down 1–4 and then we were just like, we’re not just going to let this match go,” Rotaru said. “Once the energy was brought up, we were able to come back.”
Banuelos emphasized the importance of their chemistry, noting that their connection off the court translates into strong communication during matches.
“We make sure to keep each other hyped and not bring each other down,” she said. “In the end, we’re a team.”
Although the Eagles fell short in doubles overall, the momentum from Rotaru and Banuelos’ comeback carried into singles play.
Junior biology major Addison Felts set the tone at No. 1 singles with a 6–2, 7–5 win over Grinnell player Pari Chavan. Rotaru followed in No. 2 singles with a commanding 6–2, 6–0 victory. Sophomore Natalie Kim added another point with a 6–2, 6–3 win at No. 3.
Banuelos continued her strong day at No. 4 singles, winning 6–1, 6–3, with sophomore Sophia Broomall capping off the Eagles’ performance with a 6–4, 6–1 victory at No. 6.
Heading into the match, the team focused heavily on mental preparation. Sophomore biology major Emily Tharp highlighted the importance of their mindset in practice leading up to the competition.
“I’ve been focusing most on getting a good game plan together and executing points,” she said. “It’s about building the right plan and sticking to it.”
That mindset proved crucial as the Eagles regrouped after doubles and took control of singles play.
The match also drew strong support from fellow students, contributing to a lively atmosphere.
Freshman and women’s rugby player Olivia Elder described the energy as “one of the most dramatic matches” she has seen.
While freshman kinesiology major and lacrosse player Lila White called it simply fun, noting the team’s enthusiasm and support for one another.
“It’s nice to kind of come out and support them, especially since we’re both spring sports, support each other,” said White.
With the win, Mary Washington continues to build momentum early in the season. Rotaru and Banuelos also noted the team’s growth, particularly in doubles play.
“We’re finally getting our groove,” Rotaru said. “We’re seeing so much improvement from the beginning of the year.”
The Eagles will look to carry that momentum into their next match as they host No. 2 ranked Washington University in St. Louis at home on March 27 at 4 p.m.
