Conners Posts Victory at N.E. Tennis Tournament

Carli Conners, a 1st-year player from Medina, Ohio, posted a victory for the Gulls this past weekend at the New England Women's Intercollegiate Tennis Tournament (NEWITT), held at Amherst College, Mount Holyoke College, and Hampshire College. Conners, playing 5th singles, prevailed in a three set match against an opponent from Mount Holyoke. After dropping the first set, 2-6, Conners took the second, 6-3, and then won a third-set tiebreaker, 7-4. "There were several momentum shifts in the final set, but Carli kept her composure and played well down the stretch," said Coach Herlihy. "She dictated play and kept attacking short balls. She deserved to win."

The Gulls were competitive in several other matches. Brianne Cogan, also a 1st-year player, lost a three-set match at 4th singles to an opponent from Wesleyan. Cogan and Conners also played well in their 3rd doubles match, holding their own against the 2nd seeded team from Williams before losing, 3-8. "The match was a lot closer than the score suggests," said Herlihy. "Carli and Brianne made them earn the win."

The 1st doubles team of Blythe Langley and Lauren Gibbons also found themselves in a close match. The two fought hard, but came up short, 5-8, to a team from Mount Holyoke. Also representing Endicott were Melissa Marrone, Tessy Garcia, and Julie Castle.

"Playing in the NEWITT is a great opportunity for the players," said Herlihy. "It gives them a chance to test themselves against players from the top Div. III teams in the region. Some of the teams in the tournament are actually among the best in the nation."

Conference play for the Gulls resumes on Wednesday, Oct. 22, when the team travels to Regis (3:30 start). The sqaud is currently 10-1 in dual matches and tied for 1st place in the CCC.