In a thrilling conclusion to the Ivy League tennis season, the men’s tennis team at Cornell University secured a commendable third-place finish, boasting an impressive 18-6 season record (5-2 Ivy) after prevailing over Yale in a closely contested 4-3 match at the esteemed Cullman-Heyman Tennis Center in New Haven, Connecticut. Junior Radu Papoe and senior Samuel Paquette played pivotal roles in the triumph, notching their 10th win of the spring season with an early 6-2 victory in doubles. Despite a resilient effort from Yale, Cornell successfully secured the doubles point and proceeded to evenly split the singles matches, ultimately emerging victorious.
This landmark achievement represents the men’s tennis team’s most outstanding record since the 2016-17 season, laying the groundwork for the forthcoming NCAA Division 1 Men’s Tennis Team Selection Show slated for April 29. The team, currently positioned at No. 33, is optimistic about securing a berth in the NCAA championships for the first time in the program’s storied history.
Prior to their gripping encounter with Yale, both the men’s and women’s teams celebrated triumphs against Brown, with the men’s team clinching a decisive victory and the women’s team triumphing in both doubles and singles matches. Furthermore, the women’s team marked Senior Day by paying tribute to their solitary veteran, Lauren Stein, for her invaluable contributions to the squad.
While the men’s team is preparing for the NCAA selection show, the women’s team encountered a formidable challenge against Yale on Senior Day, ultimately succumbing to a 4-1 defeat. Undeterred by this setback, the team is steadfast in their resolve to fortify their roster and coaching staff for forthcoming accomplishments in the seasons to come.
Senior Lauren Stein embraced a poignant and unforgettable day, expressing immense pride in her achievements at Cornell University, attributing her success to the unwavering support of her comrades, teammates, and coaches. In addition to enduring a demanding match, the women’s team exhibited remarkable resilience and determination, establishing a platform for future glories.
The men’s and women’s tennis teams at Cornell University concluded their Ivy League season with tenacity and triumph, setting their sights on upcoming achievements in NCAA competition.
Anika Kolanu
[email protected]