University of Richmond Athletics
Vanessa Bagnato And Spiders Begin Quest For A-10 Title
04/17/2003 | Women's Tennis
April 17, 2003
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND, Va. - Bad weather and a difficult schedule have tested the Richmond women's tennis team during the 2003 spring season. Spider senior Vanessa Bagnato and the Spiders are determined to overcome the adversity and capture their second consecutive Atlantic 10 Conference championship this weekend in College Park, Md.
Bagnato, a native of Manhasset, N.Y., has won three matches at No. 2 and three more at No. 3 singles this spring, compiling an 11-15 overall record. Fellow senior Casey Cohen (14-13) and sophomore Courtney Klein (13-9) join Bagnato with double-digit wins.
"Vanessa is playing some of her best tennis right now," said 14h-year head coach Mark Wesselink. "Her determination and tenacity help inspire and motivate her teammates."
The Spiders cruised to the 2002 A-10 title, winning all three matches 4-0. This year has not been as easy. With many matches lost to stormy weather, the Spiders still faced many nationally ranked teams. Wins against Michigan State, Davidson and Brown have helped rebuild the confidence that soared last year.
"The tough matches have made us mentally strong," Wesselink said. "We've had the A-10s in our sights all season. We know that the other teams will be shooting for us."
The third-seeded Spiders begin play at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday against the winner of the Saint Joseph's/Fordham match that begins at 11 a.m.