In a Tuesday afternoon doubleheader, the No. 2 North Carolina women’s tennis team (11-1) defeated UNCG (1-4) and Appalachian State (3-2) in its first return to action since a trip to the ITA National Team Indoor Championships which culminated in a loss to Georgia in the title match. After a disappointing finish to their indoor championship run, the Tar Heels looked to rebound against their in-state opponents and use the back-to-back matches as a tune up for upcoming conference play at the Cone-Kenfield Tennis Center.
What happened?
The Tar Heels started the day off by defeating the Spartans, 7-0, refusing to lose a single set in both singles and doubles play. UNC appeared to be firing on all cylinders, continuing the style of play that allowed them to reach the ITA Indoor Championship title match for the fifth straight season.
After a brief intermission, North Carolina continued to prove why the team is considered to be one of the top squads in the nation, taking down the Mountaineers in a similar 7-0 fashion. The Tar Heels finished the day without losing any sets in any matches, demonstrating the strength the team possesses across its lineup.
Who stood out?
Tuesday’s doubleheader saw a number of head coach Brian Kalbas’ reserves step up and play well on their home court. Senior Chloe Ouellet-Pizer and first-year Sophia Patel’s play warranted recognition from their coach.
“It was great to see Chloe and Sophia get in here and play all four matches,” Kalbas said. “Going down the road into conference play, we are going to need more than the six players that have played mostly in our tough matches.”
The duo won both doubles matches against UNCG and Appalachian State, 6-1.
