College Tennis
Men: Mount St. Mary's University 5, Rider University 2
Women: Mount St. Mary's University 5, Rider University 2

EMMITSBURG, Md.—Both the Rider University men's and women's tennis teams lost a non-conference match at Mount St. Mary's on Sunday afternoon by identical 5-2 scores.

“We struggled with the windy conditions,” said head coach Doug Potkay.  “It was tough to keep balls in the court.  Overall, we adjusted when we got to singles play and played some competitive matches.”

For the Rider (1-6) men, freshman Chris Popso (Florence) won 6-1, 6-2 at second singles and freshman Agaazi Berhane (Williamstown) won for the second time in a row, scoring a three-set victory 1-6, 6-2, 7-6 (6) at sixth singles. 

“Chris played with confidence,” Potkay said.  “His forehand is starting to become a weapon and he is using a slice backhand to keep the ball low on his opponent.”

For the Rider (0-7) women, senior Alison Noll (Monmouth Junction/South Brunswick) won her fifth straight match and improved to 6-1 on the season with a 6-2, 6-1 victory at first singles and senior Michelle Caravaglio (Manalapan/Freehold) was a 6-4, 6-3 winner at second singles.  Noll and Caravaglio teamed up for an 8-5 victory at first doubles.  For the Bronc first doubles team, it was their third win in a row as they improved to 4-1 on the season.

“Michelle won her first of the season in singles play,” Potkay said.  “She won in convincing fashion and is playing with more confidence.” 

Both teams travel to Quinnipiac University on October 21 for a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference match, beginning at 2:30pm.

-RU-