All three of the first-years competing on the ladder won their first collegiate matches. Setting the tone for the match was Allie Dalglish ’11, playing at the top spot. Two hard-fought games sandwiched an easy 9-1 victory for Dalglish in the second game. Tied eight-all in the first and third games, she took control at the end of each, edging ahead to win the contest, 10-9 and 10-8, respectively. Securing strong wins in spots two, three and five were first-year Hayley Milbourn, senior co-captain Libby Martin and first-year Caitlin Demkin, respectively. Co-captain Di Kirkwood ’08 put pressure on the Huskies with three close games, while Melissa Moulton ’08, LaMontagne, Hannah Merves ’10, and Moriah Donelan ’08 added wins as well.
On Tuesday, however, the Jeffs took on second-ranked national powerhouse Trinity College and were swept 9-0. “Trinity was a tough match, as always,” said Merves. Keeping expectations realistic, however, the Jeffs did not anticipate another easy victory. “We knew we had nothing to lose,” said LaMontagne. “So we went into the match with no stress.” Entering and leaving the match with a positive attitude, Amherst used it as an opportunity to recognize areas in need of improvement.
The strength of the team’s character shines through its persistent confidence. “Everyone on the team enjoyed the chance to play with some of the best collegiate women players out there,” said Merves.
Having entered the match with the right attitude, the team walked away with its momentum intact. “Team morale is very high, and hopefully our positive attitude will help us pull out a win against Tufts [University],” added LaMontagne. Training will be light this week, as the Jeffs prepare to return to action on Thursday against Tufts and on Saturday against Vassar College and Columbia University.