WOMEN’S TENNIS

The Huntington women’s tennis team hit the road Saturday afternoon for a non-conference clash against NCAA Division I opponent Valparaiso University. Despite competing hard across the lineup, the Foresters came up short in a 6-1 decision. 

Huntington’s point came courtesy of Tiziana Rizzato at No. 3 singles, where she outlasted Valpo’s Brynn Steven in a thrilling three-set battle. After splitting the first two sets (6-4, 4-6), Rizzato dug deep in the decisive match tiebreak, pulling through for a 10-8 victory. 

The Foresters also impressed in doubles play at the top spot. Addison Mast and Yariange Bello teamed up for a strong 7-5 win over Valparaiso’s Silva and Rogers. However, the Beacons claimed victories on courts two and three to secure the doubles point and early momentum. 

In singles action, Huntington fought valiantly but couldn’t crack Valpo’s lineup beyond Rizzato’s triumph. Mast pushed her opponent to the brink at No. 2 singles, nearly forcing a third set before falling 6-1, 7-5. Bello also battled tightly at No. 4 singles, extending her second set to a tiebreak before dropping a 6-3, 7-6 decision. 

The Foresters (1-1) return home on Tuesday to host Indiana University East at Klopfenstein Courts on the campus of Huntington University.