Penn tennis teams come up aces over the weekend

Women pass toughest test so far versus Mountaineers In its toughest match of the season the women's tennis team came through yet again, beating West Virginia 7-2, at Lott Courts last Friday. "In our previous matches we had expected to win, but on Friday I wasn't sure what to expect," Penn coach Cissie Leary said. "To say that I am pleased with our performance is an understatement." Julia Feldman, playing in the No. 3 spot, was certainly pleased with her showing, as she defeated Jodi Firestone 6-2, 6-2. "[Firestone] was a consistent baseline player," Feldman said. "At first I had a shaky start, but my serve carried me through it." The Quakers turned in perhaps their best doubles of the season, winning all three matches. The play of the No. 1 Penn team, Preety Sorathia and Feldman, was especially impressive. They outplayed a tough West Virginia team consisting of Christina Walker and Karolina Krajewska, winning 6-4, 6-2. Walker was ranked in the East region last year as a freshman. "The team's doubles play really carried us to victory," Feldman said. "It really showed all of us where we are at because West Virginia is the toughest team we have played yet." Captain Beth Brady, who has not been in the singles lineup as of late due to injuries, showed her strength in doubles. She and partner Karen Ridley defeated Dana Adams and Firestone in the No. 2 spot, 7-5, 6-1. In order to beat West Virginia in doubles, Penn had to play aggressive tennis. The Quakers did just that. "We went in and played some serious and aggressive doubles," Leary said. "We won points. They didn't lose them." This Friday and Saturday, Penn will be hosting one half of the ITA Regional Tournament at Lott Courts. The 16 best teams in the region compete in the tournament, eight playing at Penn and eight at Princeton. Of the teams participating in the tournament, George Washington and Boston College are among the best. "The tournament contains a good mix of schools," Leary said. "It will be tough and challenging for our players."