Pitt Tennis Impresses on Opening Day of Wildcat Invitational
9/26/2014 12:00:00 AM | Women's Tennis
CHICAGO – Highlighted by four players going 2-0 in singles and Amanda Wickman recording her 100th career victory, the University of Pittsburgh women’s tennis team was very impressive on Friday during the opening day of the Wildcat Invitational hosted by Northwestern University.
“We don't rest on our laurels after the first day of a three day tournament, but we definitely started on the right foot,” head coach Alex Santos said. “There's a lot to be said for Amanda achieving 100 wins for Pitt Tennis today. Reaching such a milestone is an impressive career landmark that only special players are able to accomplish. Amanda's passion, commitment, and sacrifice for Pitt Tennis is undeniable and we love to see her continuing to grow.”
Wickman, along with her sister Molly Wickman, Lolade Ogungbesan and Callie Frey all advanced to tomorrow’s quarterfinals by winning a pair of singles matches on the opening day of competition.
Overall, the Panthers were 9-5 in singles and played to an even doubles mark of 2-2 on the day with the duo’s of Audrey Ann Blakely and Molly Wickman and Amber Washington and Amanda Wickman advancing to the quarterfinals of doubles.
Action continues tomorrow at the Wildcat Invitational. Continue to check back with www.pittsburghpanthers.com throughout the weekend and also follow @PittTennis on Twitter for continuous updates.
ADDITIONAL QUOTES FROM Alex Santos:
“I had one of my best preseason individual meetings with Molly Wickman. The takeaway message was brief but clear: I had someone in front of me who had high expectations and the willingness to pay the price for greatness. Molly's improvement has been incredible and her leadership by example is something that we are very fortunate to have.
“Lolade was able to see the hard work and diligent preparation that she has been putting in come to fruition today. I think she was also able to truly understand how a matter of a few minor details can make the difference between being successful and being unsuccessful. I loved the way Lolade trusted her patterns, and by the end of the day the quality of her tennis was top notch.
“Callie found a way on the tennis court today, and most importantly she demonstrated resilience by saving four match points. The most important thing for us now is to rest and be ready for another great day.”