MONMOUTH, ILL. — The Central College women's tennis team came out on top by identical 8-1 margins in non-conference victories over Knox College (Ill.) and Monmouth College (Ill.) Saturday.

For the first time in his three years guiding the Dutch, coach Ryun Ferrell has an inexperienced squad after the graduations of five seniors. A singles lineup that included four sophomores and two juniors managed to handle their opponents in both matches Saturday.

"For as young as we are, we looked really good," Ferrell said. "I was pleased with our effort."
            
Leading the way was EmmaGarace Walter (sophomore, Johnston) at No. 2 singles, where she needed a third set against Knox but handled Rachel Leifheit of Monmouth 6-4, 6-1.

"I saw a side of EmmaGrace that I didn't know existed," Ferrell said. "She really hates losing more than she likes winning. She outwilled her opponents both times."

Central's lineup was sensational at No. 3-No. 6 against Monmouth. Sophomores Jenna Stewart (Burlington, Notre Dame HS) and Cheyenne Powell (Nacogdoches, Texas) won 6-0, 6-0 at No. 4 and No. 6 singles, respectively. Junior Paige Vannausdle (Red Oak) won 6-1, 6-0 at No. 3 and sophomore Kirsten Jordan (Clear Lake) was victorious by the same score at No. 5.

Freshmen Madison Krumm (Kellogg, Grinnell HS) and Sami Thompson (Knoxville) got their first taste of collegiate tennis Saturday. Krumm partnered with Holly Vander Pol (junior, Newton) at No. 3 doubles for an 8-6 win against Knox. Thompson was joined by Powell for an 8-0 victory at No. 3 doubles against Monmouth.

"They did exactly what I thought they would," Ferrell said. "They played solid and they played hard. They're both very coachable kids and have bought into what we're trying to teach them. I'm excited about their careers here at Central."

Central hits the road again next Friday for its Iowa Conference opener against Wartburg.