Agate

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – The 75th-ranked Elon University women's tennis team opened its spring season on Friday, Jan. 9, with a 6-1 setback at fourth-ranked North Carolina at the Cone-Kenfield Tennis Center in Chapel Hill, N.C.
 
Rookie Kamilla Beisenova captured the Phoenix's lone point against the nationally-ranked Tar Heels, topping Maggie Kane in three sets, 7-5, 4-6, 1-0 (10-5).
 
"Our team fought hard today against a very talented UNC squad, showing great team spirit," said Elon head coach Elizabeth Anderson. "I was very impressed with Kamilla's win, especially having just arrived on campus last week. We look forward to getting back to practice the next 10 days in preparation for our home opener against South Carolina State."
 
Playing at the top singles position, rookie Kirsten Ward opened up her collegiate career with a tough test against UNC's eighth-ranked Jamie Loeb. Ward fought hard, but dropped a 6-0, 6-0, decision in straight sets.
 
At No. 2 singles, senior Barbora Lazarova suffered a 6-1, 6-3, setback to 22nd-ranked Caroline Price, while classmate Maria Camara Ruiz fell, 6-0, 6-2, at No. 4 versus Marika Akkerman.
 
Freshman Erica Braschi dropped a 6-3, 6-0, decision to Whitney Kay at No. 3 singles, while Taylor Casey fell, 6-2, 6-2, at No. 5 against UNC's Cassandra Vazquez.
 
The Tar Heels swept doubles play as well, earning the early point in the match to take a 1-0 advantage.
 
The Phoenix returns to action on Jan. 20 at 1 p.m. for its home opener against South Carolina State.