PELLA — The Central College women's tennis team fell 9-0 in its Iowa Conference opener against Coe College Saturday, its first loss of the season.

Hosting the Kohawks (4-0) in their first home game of the year, the Dutch (3-1) were shut out but coach Ryun Ferrell was encouraged by the performance.

"I'm starting to learn more about this team and I'm liking what I'm learning," he said. "We gave Coe a good run for their money. Our team is starting to believe a little more than they did the day before."

Jenna Stewart (sophomore, Burlington, Notre Dame HS) continues to show growth from last season, taking her No. 4 singles match to a third set before losing 7-5, 6-0, 10-4.

"Jenna is the fittest player on the team," Ferrell said. "She probably worked the hardest over the summer, too. She's the most improved so far in my book."

Holly Vander Pol (junior, Newton) and Madison Krumm (freshman, Kellogg, Grinnell HS) nearly pulled off the victory at No. 3 doubles, but dropped a 9-8 decision.

"They were actually up 7-3," Ferrell said. "Coe raised their level and our level stayed the same. They're a younger team and that's a lesson they need to learn."

Ferrell also cited the effort from No. 6 singles player Cheyenne Powell (sophomore, Nacogdoches, Texas) in bouncing back from a disappointing result Friday night.

"Cheyenne had a rough day yesterday against Wartburg," he said "She came out today ready to play. She has a nice solid game and is very coachable. I'm excited about what she brings."

Two more Iowa Conference matches await the Dutch next weekend when they host Buena Vista and Nebraska Wesleyan at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., respectively.