Warren’s girls tennis team is 8-1 on the season after a big Region 2 win on Tuesday over Erie High.
“Last time we played them, we had a couple competitive matches and knew we couldn’t take them lightly,” said Warren coach Thomas Pellegrino of the Dragons’ 4-1 victory at Betts Park. “Overall, this was a great team win for our girls and our program. Last season, we were D10 runner-ups with an 8-8 record. This year, we’re already 8-1 with six regular season matches left to play.”
In the first singles slot, Warren’s Iris Kiehl pulled off one of the biggest upsets and easily the biggest win on the season by defeating Anisa Silkovic, 6-3, 6-4.
“Not only did Anisa beat Iris last time around, but this was the eighth time total Iris has played this girl, losing the previous seven,” said Pellegrino. “As they are both seniors, Iris knew this would be the last time she had the opportunity to beat her and she took the opportunity and ran with it.
“This was hands down the best I’ve seen Iris play,” added Pellegrino, “and goes to show why so many colleges want her on their team. Her grit and will to win are unmatched and her tennis IQ may be the best we have seen. To lose to someone several times and have the belief in yourself to go grab a win for your team; what a win for Iris today.”
At second singles, Mary Gerace battled hard, but fell a bit short in losing 2-6, 7-5, 2-6 to Erie’s Riley Gloystein.
“This was a back-and-forth battle and we felt the momentum would shift in our favor after the second set, but Riley played a flawless third set and made it very tough for Mary to close out games,” said Pellegrino.
At third singles, Lucy Harrison set the tone early for the Dragons, defeating Mackenzie Bruce, 6-0, 6-1.
“This girl is a machine; when you need someone to step up and send a message, Lucy is always there,” said Pellegrino.
At first doubles, Warren’s Izzy Heacox and Natasha Ferry defeated Marisha Tamang and Trystan Righi, 6-1, 6-2.
“Izzy and Tasha are clicking at the right time and are playing in sync,” said Pellegrino. “Today, they took over the net and really took over with some aggressive returns, putting their opponents on defense all match.”
At second doubles, Grace Carr and Mackenzie Lester defeated Erie’s Eliza Broczan and Arden Claudio, 6-0, 6-0.
“This was the first time we have tried out this pair and we were very pleased with the results,” said Pellegrino. “They are righty and lefty, so having two forehands in the middle was a nice advantage.
“Girls tennis is moving in the right direction and we plan on keeping this train moving with matches against Mercyhurst Prep away Thursday and Saint Marys home on Friday,” he said.
