Women’s tennis team headed to playoffs for first time

by Eben Gourlay and Brian Carey

(Photo: Jenna Raymond)

For the first time, the Franklin Pierce women’s tennis team has made the playoffs. After a difficult 2018 that saw the team finish with an overall record of 2-18, the team has had a complete turnaround. The women’s tennis team is currently sitting at a record of 9-5. Now, they look ahead to their first round matchup against Le Moyne Wednesday. After losing to Le Moyne in the regular season, the Ravens look to get revenge. 

Senior Brigid Washburn was on the tennis team during the struggles of the previous years. She is not taking this opportunity for granted. “It’s super exciting being that we are the first women’s tennis team at Franklin Pierce to make the playoffs. It’s also even more exciting because it’s my senior year.” Washburn mentioned that the team has focused on consistency and being mentally tough all season long. 

“Preseason was definitely a big factor in our team having as much success as we are,” she said.

Coach Peter Arsenault made a rule that everyone on the team had to pass a timed mile run in order to make the lineup. According to Washburn, “This made every single woman on the team work hard and push themselves as we all do in our individual matches.” She also credited the team working together all season. “Without the enthusiasm we have had as a team, we would not be where we are today,” she said.

The Ravens will be playing Le Moyne tonight, October 23rd in Syracuse, New York. According to Washburn, “Everyone is extremely excited to be playing in Syracuse for the big playoff game.”

Arsenault told the team he wants to make it even further than just making program history by entering playoffs. “His goal is for us to win in the final,” Washburn said.