Box Score

Waipahu, HI --- Participating in the first of three matches within the Aqua Tournament hosted by Hawaii Pacific, Urban Knights women's tennis (5-10 overall) gave a valiant effort against #41 University of Hawaii - Hilo Wednesday afternoon at Central Oahu Regional Park. Although Academy of Art fell 6-3 in the contest, AAU continued its recent strong doubles play by capturing two of three matches in the competition.

“I am happy with the effort I saw on the court today,” Coach Allen said. “We had very long points and everyone was very patient in the middle of their match. That's what is going to pay off as long as we learn from every single match. Everyone seemed to be focused and played their hearts out which we've worked at all season.”

The powerhouse doubles combination of Diane Phan and Laone "Lala" Botshoma again prevailed for the Urban Knights. Diane and Lala played a tough match and were able to defeat their opponents with a score of 9-7. Cecilia Hedin and Maria "Belen" Tenorio were also able to keep thier hot streak in doubles play. Together they came out victorious in their doubles match and won with a score of 8-6.

AAU did not fair as well in the singles matches as they did in the doubles. Although they played well and fought the entire match, all but one came up short in thier singles games. Laone "Lala" Botshoma was the only Urban Knight to defeat her Vulcan singles opponent. In a tough match, she defeated Jusinte Abella with scores of 6-2, 7-6, 6-3. Anna Ritchie also played a solid singles match. Despite falling short of the win, Ritchie battled into three games and lost 6-3, 2-6, 6-3.

“The team left everything they had on the court today which is all I can ask,” Coach Allen said. “We were communicating well together and that was good to see. I think Cecilia Hedin said it best: 'Even though we suffered a loss, all the things we've worked on are starting to come together.' That's encouraging to hear.”

The Urban Knights continue thier play in the Aqua tournament on March 25th when they take on No. 43 in the Nation Chaminade University. Game time is set for 3:00 PM (HST) at Central Oahu Regional Park.