Phoenix, AZ—The Academy of Art University women's tennis team was defeated by Chaminade University in the opening match of the Grand Canyon Tournament.  The Swords took home wins in #2, #3, #4 and #5 singles to go along with wins in #2 and #3 doubles. 

Head Coach Dave Allen said that the girls was really excited for their first out-of-state trip as a team and especially to get out on the court and face other Pac West Conference teams.  "In looking at the teams we're facing, the Urban Knights are definitely in the mix," Allen said.  "Anna Ritchie pulled off a tremendous win and Botshoma's athleticism and power shone brightly today, especially when she ripped a forehand return for match point."  Coach Allen added that dual-sport athlete Barnes competed really well against Chaminade and was an inspiration to the rest of the team. 

RESULTS: 

SINGLES
#1 Cassy Fabiani def. Audra Takara 6-2, 7-5

#2 Tiffany DeVincent def. Laone "Lala" Botshoma 7-5, 4-6, 6-2

#3 Natalie Phanphengdy def. Maria "Belen" Tenorio 6-2, 6-2

#4 Stacey Chaussoy def. Paola Correa Fe 7-5, 6-2
#5 Silkie Kawahakui def. Anna Ritchie 6-0, 6-2

#6 Cecilia Hedin def. Kiana Iwado 6-2, 7-5

DOUBLES

#1 Cassy Fabianni & Laone "Lala" Botshoma def. Tiffany DeVincent & Audra Takara 8-5

#2 Natalie Phanphengdy & Stacey Chaussoy def. Paola Correa Fe & Maria "Belen" Tenorio 8-1

#3 Silkie Kawahakui & Kiana Iwado def. Cecilia Hedin & Solveig Barnes 8-0

With the win, Chaminade moves to 1-1 overall and the Urban Knights fall to 0-3 overall.  The Urban Knights face nationally-ranked powerhouse and fellow Pac West member BYU Hawaii today at 11am.