February 2, 2008

[box score]

BEMIDJI, Minn. - The Bemidji State University tennis team was defeated by the University of North Dakota Saturday Saturday as both teams lifted the lid on the 2008 season in an afternoon match at the Gillett Recreation/Fitness Center.

Despite failing to record a team point, the Beavers showed a tremendous amount of grit and competitive drive in the meet pushing to the bitter end.

"The girls really competed today. When you go against an NCAA Division I team like North Dakota, the level of talent and athleticism is definitely different," commented Bemidji State head coach Scott Sorenson. "If we play against our conference opponents this year as well as we played today, we can be right near the top of the conference this season."

The Fighting Sioux jumped out to an early, 3-0 lead capturing each of the three doubles matches. BSU team of Kali Welu (Jr., Pequot Lakes, Minn.) and Sheila Hoberg (So., Bismarck, N.D.) were shut out by UND's Emily Callison and Jenna Larson, 8-0 at No. 1 doubles while BSU's No. 3 pair of Kara Johnson (Fr., Anoka, Minn.) and Danielle Coffey (Fr., Circle Pines, Minn.) dropped their match to Kate Callison and Emma Hustad of North Dakota, 8-1.

BSU had its best chance to steal a team point from UND in the No. 2 doubles match. The Beavers sent senor Kristen Lexcen (Andover, Minn.) and Farrah Steinke (Fr., Crosby, Minn.) to battle the Sioux's Katie Wessman and Katie Hoverson. BSU's tandem pushed the UND squad to 8-5 before falling.

After sweeping the doubles points, the Fighting Sioux continued to roll as singles competition got underway. UND gained victories in all six individual matches to take the match 9-0.

In exhibition play, BSU's Cheyanne Maki (So., Watford, N.D.) and Erin Mapes (So., Monticello, Minn.) were defeated by the UND duo of Katie Wessman and Katie Hoverson, 8-4.

BSU, 0-1 on the season, continues non-conference play next weekend when it travels to St. Cloud, Minn. for a Sunday match up with the College of St. Benedict. The meet is set for a 6 p.m. start at Gold's Gym.

--bsu--