Senior Ceci Mercier registered the only victory for the Lady Lions against Abilene Christian University. Don Lawrence/The Lion's Roar
The Lady Lions tennis team were unable to clinch their second consecutive win in the Southland Conference against Abilene Christian University.
On Sunday, March 25, at 11 a.m., the team had the same troubles in doubles category as they did in previous loses. The Lady Lions lost two double matches and allowed the Wildcats to clinch the doubles point. The team ended the game only with one win in the singles match. Junior Ceci Mercier was the winner of her match, which was also her fourth consecutive win in singles category.
Mercier explained how she was able to push herself to victory.
“I play with heart,” said Mercier. “Over the years, I’ve learned that it is a game of mental toughness. It was very hot, but I did not allow the conditions to stop me from doing what I came to do.”
Head Coach Jason Hayes identified the areas that the team needs to improve on. He explained how this affects the mindset of player moving forward.
“We’re going to continue to work on doubles, try some new things, keep them positive and let them believe that they can be successful,” said Hayes. “The Wildcats capitalized on every mistake we made. It’s always tough to lose doubles. It’s tough losing anything. I couldn’t be happier with our practices go and our team competes, but footwork and shot selection is something we need to continue to work on every practice. We just need to step up in windows key points and that will help us reach our goal. The good thing is we have dedicated players and they want to get better.”
The Wildcats clinched the match with straight-set singles victories on courts one, two and six. Late in the game, the team motivated Mercier to persevere. With the help of Mercier’s teammates and supporters, she was able put the team’s solo victory on the board with a 7-6, 6-1 win on court four.
The Lady Lions will travel to San Antonio, Texas for their next game on Friday, March 30 at 12 p.m., against University of the Incarnate Word.
