The Cyclone women's tennis team persevered into the regional tournament to end their season, despite a few roadblocks.
The Cyclones started a month later than normal due to COVID-19 precautions, shortening an already typically brief season. Their first match on Sept. 10 was postponed due to rain, their second one was canceled and they finally started competition on Sept. 17. Then they lost their No. 2 singles player, Ana Sutko (Richards), to injury and everyone had to move up a position.
Of their six regular season matches, the Cyclones had close battles and earned one victory, going 1-5 overall. Heading into the NJCAA Region IV Tournament (Oct. 9-10), however, another top player — Madelyn Stepuszek (Shepard) — was injured and couldn't compete in the final event that would determine who competes at nationals. Once again, nearly all the players moved up one spot in the lineup, facing unfamiliar opponents. Nevertheless, they each stepped up their game.
Freshman Amanda Hess (Lincoln-Way West) lost a tight match, but it was her best performance of the season, said Head Coach Mike Giordano. Newcomer Allie Macelli (Oak Lawn) made some impressive shots while freshman Nada Hinnawi (Richards) upset a tough opponent in a three-set tiebreaker to move on to the next round before losing the next two matches. The team finished sixth at regionals.
"When we had our full team, we were competitive and had a solid doubles core. We were more of a doubles team," Giordano said. "We had quite a turn of events this year, but we're fortunate we even had a season and that the players formed bonds."
In the blink of an eye, the Cyclones were done with competition. They say farewell to sophomores Julie Andrist (Oak Lawn), Trisha Meyers (Stagg) and Olivia Guzik (Stagg). While each represented Moraine Valley well, Giordano gave a special shoutout to Andrist for her dedication and drive. She had the mentality of never giving up, which showed on the court as she hustled for every point and fell into the splits at least once per match reaching for the ball.
"I can't thank them enough for their dedication. I, as well as the team, wish nothing but the best for their futures. We hope they continue playing as well as become successful in their future careers," Giordano said.
Even though this was an unusual season, Giordano recognized all his players for making the most out of tough circumstances.
"With the difficulties this year due to COVID-19, the women handled it great with all the new rules and protocols without ever questioning it. I'm very proud of everything they accomplished, and I know they are as well because they all improved greatly over this short season as tennis players, but more importantly, as young women," he said.