Tennis team grabs second-straight win
Frogs sweep doubles point against Utah
By Shelli Manchaca
Skiff Staff

The women's tennis team notched its second straight win Wednesday afternoon at the Bayard H. Friedman Tennis Center after beating Utah 5-0 in a match that was shortened due to inclement weather.

The win brings TCU’s record to 6-5 overall and 2-1 in Conference USA. Early in the match, junior Paty Aburto and senior Rosa Perez gained vital points by ousting Cassie Kasteler and Ellen Svensson of Utah, 8-0, in their doubles’ match. Junior Saber Pierce and doubles’ partner sophomore Karla Mancinas defeated Maria Svensson and Allison Hansen, 8-4, while senior Brenna Shackelford and sophomore Ivonne Andrade beat Utah’s Sheri Esrock and Rachel Alder, 8-4.

Prior to Wednesday’s matchup against Utah, the Frogs had won just one of their last six matches. They began a five-game losing streak March 1.

TCU’s No. 1 Aburto, who ranks No. 72 in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association, helped boost her standings with Wednesday’s defeat of Ellen Svensson (6-2, 6-2) in her singles match.

Aburto said she was not intimidated by the competition.

“I felt very strong and have through most of the season,” she said. “My technique has been consistent and with a little work in conditioning and unwavering confidence I know I can do better.”

No. 2 Perez and No. 4 freshman Iris Jaklin defeated Utah's Kasteler (6-1, 6-2) and Alder (6-1, 6-1).

Dave Borelli, who is in his first season as head coach of the Frogs, said he is confident in his players and expects them to get better as the season continues.

“We are facing tougher teams this year and stepping up fairly well,” he said. “We must get better and the only way to get better is to play tougher teams. I feel we are progressing steadily as our top four players are improving everyday."

The Frogs face off against Marshall noon Saturday at the Bayard H. Friedman Tennis Center.

Shelli Manchaca