Wisconsin Tennis Squad Remains Flawless After Dominating Doubleheader

The University of Wisconsin women's tennis team maintained its perfect season record on Saturday by defeating two opponents with identical 7-0 scores. The Badgers first defeated Bradley University before shutting out Green Bay in a doubleheader that brought their overall record to 6-0 for the year. This performance marks the best start to a season for the program since 1992.

The Badgers established early dominance in the doubles matches. Freshman MaryAnn Rompf and senior Kelsey Grambeau secured the opening point by defeating Theresa Tebon and Tallie Piaskowski with a 6-1 scoreline. Following that victory, sophomore Melissa Pick and freshman Lexi Keberle added another point as they beat Maria Neff and Samm Pedersen 6-0.

Momentum from the doubles portion carried directly into the singles matches, where no Wisconsin player lost a single set. Lexi Keberle competed at first singles and defeated Tebon with scores of 6-1 and 6-1. Keberle remains unbeaten in both singles and doubles competition, holding a combined record of 7-0 for the season.

MaryAnn Rompf won the second singles match against Piaskowski with a 6-3 and 6-1 result. At third singles, Michelle Linden defeated Sterre Tijssens 6-1 and 6-0. Melissa Pick followed with a 6-0 and 6-0 shutout of Neff. Christina Zordani finished the match at fifth singles, beating Pedersen 6-0 and 6-1 to improve her personal singles record to 5-0.

Head coach Kelcy McKenna attributed the team's success to their focus on controllable factors. She noted that the players demonstrated excellent attitude, effort, and energy during the matches. McKenna stated that these three elements are extremely important to the team's overall success.

To maintain this level of play, McKenna emphasized the need to concentrate on small details in practice. The coaching staff is ensuring that all players manage daily drills and match simulations effectively to prepare for upcoming competitions. This preparation is vital as the team looks ahead to the National Indoors and the remainder of the spring schedule.

Despite the perfect record, McKenna identified specific areas for improvement, particularly in doubles. She said the team needs to clean up serves and returns to become the first team to be aggressive. The coach also stressed the importance of hitting specific spots on service plays to maximize scoring opportunities.

McKenna added that the team must protect its advantage when it holds the doubles point. She explained that players need to carry momentum into singles matches and remain gritty to avoid giving away free points. This approach is designed to ensure that early leads translate into final victories.

The Badgers will next compete from Feb. 9 to 12 when they host the National Team Indoor Championship. The team will look to extend its unbeaten start during this upcoming event.