Freshman Brooke Zielke and sophomore Jasmine Abunaim are heading to nationals after solidifying their domination at #1 doubles following the NJCAA Region IV tournament (Oct. 12-13).

On their home courts, the Cyclones played some of their best tennis all season, garnering a third place finish overall. After nearly getting in all the first round singles matches on the courts, the teams had to move inside due to rain. The following day all rounds were held outdoors. Through it all, the Cyclones were unfazed.

At #1 singles, Zielke faced a highly-talented player from College of Lake County. The first time these two met earlier this season, Zielke also lost but had a goal to get in more games the next time they faced each other. Even in this loss, she reached her goal and took second overall. Abunaim continued her unbeaten streak by becoming region champ at #2 singles, but it didn't come easy. For the first time this year, she lost her first set with uncharacteristic form and nerves. After some regrouping and pep talks, she came out like her old self to win the next two, including the tiebreaker. It was one of the longer matches this year at over two hours. The duo won easily at doubles, also remaining undefeated, for a region championship.

"During the season Brooke and Jasmine went into a tiebreaker with their opponent, but not at the tournament. They won easily. This was the best they've ever played. They're a great pair," said head Coach Breanna Vollan."

Serene Itani and Mary Stocklen took third place for #2 doubles. They played their best all season, facing the #1 seed in the second round and taking their final two matches into third-set tiebreakers. "They're both nervous nellies, but together they were ready to win and fight. They picked each other up and made each other believe in themselves," Vollan said.

Itani lost her match in another tiebreaker at #3 singles and Summar Hasan lost at #6 singles, while Audrey Stocklen (#4 singles) and Mary Stocklen (#5 singles) each finished fourth in well-played and hard fought matches.

"The players adjusted well when we had to go inside, and we just did well overall," Vollan said. "Hands down it was a good day."

Now, Zielke and Abunaim have until May for the NJCAA Tournament in Tyler, Texas.