In a hard-fought battle at the CAA Tournament quarterfinals, the Elon University women’s tennis team fell short against No. 4 seeded Drexel, losing 4-2 at the Jimmy Powell Tennis Center in Elon, N.C.
Despite the loss, the Phoenix put up a strong fight, with freshman Simone Bergeron securing Elon’s first point of the day with a 7-6 (4), 6-3 win at No. 6 singles. Mariana Reding also made a remarkable comeback on Court 3, recovering after losing the opening set to defeat Renata Lombera 5-7, 6-4, 6-4. Mariana’s older sister, Lizette Reding, battled on Court 1 in a three-set match but ultimately fell short against Drexel’s Lorie Lemongo.
The loss marked Elon’s first defeat to Drexel in five matches and the first time since joining the CAA that the Phoenix did not advance to at least the semifinals of the conference tournament. Despite the disappointment, the team showed resilience and determination in their matches.
With the season coming to an end for Elon, Drexel advanced to the semifinals to face No. 1 seed Delaware. The Phoenix finished their season with a record of 14-10, while Drexel improved to 12-7 with the victory.
The match showcased the talent and competitive spirit of both teams, making for an exciting and intense quarterfinal showdown at the CAA Tournament.