2004 LYCOMING COLLEGE WOMEN’S TENNIS PREVIEW

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – The Lycoming College women’s tennis team will have a familiar look in 2004 as the Warriors return 10 student-athletes who competed in 2003. The line-up, however, is far from set as competition among the veterans and a host of newcomers will be stiff as Lycoming looks to improve on their 4-5 finish of a year ago.

Leading the way will be junior Josemar Castillo (Maracaibo, Venezuela; Claret and Muncy) who compiled a 6-3 record at second singles last season and will likely claim the top spot this year. Castillo also teamed with Heidi von Schwedler for a record of 11-1 as the Warriors number one doubles team.       

Four other players return from last season’s starting lineup and will battle to complete the ladder behind Castillo. Sophomore Lauren Paich (Stanhope, N.J.; Lanape Valley Regional) was 3-6 from the third slot; sophomore Anna Heffner (Williamsport, Pa.; Williamsport) was 3-5 from the fourth position; junior Kate Petcavage (Williamsport, Pa.; Williamsport) went 1-7 at number five; and senior Lauren Pilgermayer (Reeders, Pa.; Pleasant Valley) posted a 2-3 mark from the sixth position.         

Senior Erin Horsley (Allegany, N.Y.; Allegany) and sophomore Amery Lim (Stroudsburg, Pa.; Stroudsburg) each saw action at sixth singles, as well, and will compete to earn a starting role in 2004. Horsley is also a member of Lycoming’s swim team and could have a breakout season after returning to tennis for a complete off-season. Seniors Lisa Pease (Chester, Md.; Central Dauphin East) and Michelle Roux (Collegeville, Pa.; Methacton) also return from last year’s squad, but only competed in doubles play last year.      

“We have a good group of returning players who have a better understanding of what it takes to compete at this level than they did a year ago,” said head coach Deb Holmes. “I’m counting on Josemar and Erin to set a high standard both in practice and in competition.”      

Two newcomers, senior Kathryn Koury (Mansfield, Pa.; Mansfield) and junior Anne Boerckel (Williamsport, Pa.; Williamsport) will also attempt to make the team in 2004.