Women's Tennis Begins Spring Season with UVa Winter Invitational

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CHARLOTTESVILLE — The Virginia women’s tennis program begins its 2010 spring schedule this weekend as it hosts the fifth annual UVa Winter Invitational at the Boyd Tinsley Courts at the Boar’s Head Sports Club. The event is the Cavaliers’ final individual tournament before the dual match season begins the following week.

Virginia, which is ranked No. 26 in the preseason ITA rankings, are joined in this weekend’s field by No. 18 North Carolina, No. 29 LSU and No. 62 Utah.

Each day will begin with one round of doubles play, followed by one round of singles play. Action begins on Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. and on Monday at 9 a.m. Admission is free.

“We are all very happy to be starting the 2010 season and look forward to a great process and some incredible opportunities and challenges,” said head coach Mark Guilbeau. “We face our strongest schedule to date, and certainly believe we have a team that is prepared to approach every match with the type of competitive intensity, energy and enthusiasm that will lead to great success. As a staff, we are very encouraged by the bond within this team and the willingness the players are showing to establish and work toward common goals. We intend to work hard through the season, have a lot of fun, and represent UVA and our fans in the best manner possible at all times.”

The Cavaliers begin the dual match season on Jan. 24 when they host a doubleheader at the Boyd Tinsley Courts. At 10 a.m., they open the season against No. 33 Illinois, followed at 4 p.m. with a match against Richmond.

Virginia is led by sophomores Emily Fraser (Rye, N.Y.) and Lindsey Hardenbergh (Fairfax Station, Va.), who were named team captains this week. They, along with senior Jennifer Stevens (Miami, Fla.) have been ranked nationally in singles this season.