The Sam Houston State tennis team broke a two-match losing streak Tuesday as it defeated conference foe Lamar 5-2 at the Bearkat tennis complex.The win improves the Bearkats to 3-5 in the Southland Conference (4-13 on the season) and keeps their slim hopes alive to reach the post-season tournament. Four schools UT-Arlington, UT-San Antonio, Louisiana-Monroe and Southeastern Louisianahave already clinched berths in the tournament. The Bearkats, McNeese State, Northwestern State and Stephen F. Austin are battling it out for the remaining two spots, with McNeese and Northwestern in top contention for the positions.The Bearkats fared well in doubles competition on Tuesday, taking two-of-three matches. Despite a loss by No. 1 doubles tandem, Ivette Andrade and Kim Gardiner, Sam Houston fought back to win the final two matches, one by default. In No. 2 play, Diala Ammar and Stephanie Sutton defeated Lamars Alta Wentzel and Sarah Wilson 9-7. SHSUs Kim Jordan and Jayme Holmstrom did not have to play their No. 3 match with Lamar pulling out.Andrade redeemed herself in singles competition as she defeated Catalina Paz 2-6, 6-4 and 7-5. After losing No. 2 and 3 singles matches, the Bearkats got much needed help from Ammar and Holmstrom, who comfortably won their matches. Jordan was awarded No. 6 singles by default.SHSU travels to College Station to play Texas Tech on Friday, April 6.
Sections