Photo courtesy: FAMU Athletics
In a commanding display of skill and determination, the Florida A&M University (FAMU) tennis team secured a resounding victory over the Panthers in Baton Rouge, solidifying their dominance in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). With a decisive 4-1 win, the Rattlers improved their conference record to an impressive 7-1.
The dynamic duo of Sara Rakim and Genesis Whitelock set the tone for FAMU’s success, triumphing in their doubles match with a convincing 6-2 victory over Andrea Pascul Blanca and Francesca Duca. Following suit, Rebekkah Gaines and Reagan Harris extended the Rattlers’ lead with a solid 6-3 win against Amaya Bobadilla and Cierra Garcia, giving FAMU an early 1-0 advantage in the match.
Harris, displaying unwavering focus and skill, continued her stellar performance into the singles matches, overpowering Joanne Fernandes with a commanding 6-2, 6-0 victory. Susan Salinas added to the Rattlers’ tally with another singles match triumph, defeating Bobadilla with scores of 6-3, 6-0. Despite a resilient effort from the Panthers, including a notable victory by Ainara Rodriguez over Sierra Sandy (6-2, 6-1), it was Rakim who ultimately sealed the deal for FAMU, clinching the match with a 6-2, 6-3 win against Victoria Castillo.
Rebekkah Gaines, Rattlers women’s tennis player, expressed her excitement and the anticipation leading up to the team’s victory.
“It feels great to get the win! We really needed the win Friday against prairie view and this win today. ASU was undefeated so far this season, so we knew we needed to lock in and compete on all courts,” Gaines shared.
Gaines highlighted the team’s boost in confidence and their target moving further into the season. “Our team morale got a huge boost. We all are hard workers, and we know that we are the team to beat the target is on our back, however going into the championships right off this win gives us tons of confidence,” Gaines said.
With their heads held high after a dominant performance on the road, the Rattlers now turned their attention to their clash with Alabama State (4-0). This match carried significant weight for both teams. The Rattlers, currently in contention for the #1 seed in the SWAC Tournament, face the undefeated Hornets in what promises to be a thrilling showdown. A victory for FAMU would not only secure their share of the SWAC regular-season championship alongside the Hornets and potentially Jackson State but also bolster their momentum heading into the postseason.
Reagan Harris, another Rattlers women’s tennis player, shared the team’s momentum going into their most recent matchups has been driven by their hard work.
“As a team, the highlight has been winning conference matches and getting better each week and pushing each other to be better. Everyone has contributed in some way this season and it is a result of the hard work that we put in,” Harris said.
As the FAMU tennis team prepares to defend their home turf and vie for conference supremacy, anticipation builds for a showdown that could shape the landscape of SWAC tennis. With their sights set on victory, the Rattlers are poised to leave their mark on the courts and etch their names into the annals of collegiate tennis glory.
For more information and updates, please connect with the Rattlers on social media. You can follow them on Twitter at @FAMUAthletics, on Facebook at FAMUAth, and on Instagram at @famuathletics.