WILLIAMSPORT, Pa.--Lycoming women's tennis head coach Deb Holmes knows that she will be challenged this season. With the departure of both her #1 and #2 players from last year, Holmes' task is to reform a competitive unit from a mix of returners, freshman and upperclass newcomers. Holmes' team opened its season on Tuesday with a 0-9 loss to Susquehanna. But, as Holmes says, "We'll focus on improving after each match and get better."

Lycoming's #1 doubles team of sophomore Amiee Snyder (Kempton, PA) and freshman Rebecca Reynolds (South Williamsport, PA) fell to Brittany Guerin and Brittany Reiman 8-3. Lady Warrior sophomore Kelly Drinkard (Seaville, NJ) and senior Kirstie McKeever (Blossburg, PA) lost to Ali Tonetti and Katie Zimmerman in eight games. Lycoming's third doubles team of senior first-year player Emily Ruhl (Williamsport, PA) and Erika Niemann (Taylor, MI) fell to Jessie Haas and Julie Springer 8-4.

Guerin defeated Snyder in #1 singles 6-3, 6-4, while Zimmerman beat Reynolds 6-3, 7-6 (7-2). Reynolds showed excellent promise as a freshman #2. At #3, Reiman defeated Drinkard 6-1, 6-1 and at #4, Susquehanna's Shelby Werronen beat Neimann 6-1, 6-3. Lady Crusader Springer won #5 singles 6-1, 6-1 over McKeever. Lycoming junior Jessica Souchik (Lewis Run, PA) lost to Haas 6-2, 6-2.

Despite the sweep, Holmes' team displayed promise in certain spots. "We've always had a top player returning," says Holmes, "so this is a new experience. Our ladies are positive and excited about the season."

Lycoming's next match is at Lebanon Valley on September 15.