Oct. 2, 2011

LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky women’s tennis team concluded play today in their annual home tournament, the UK Invitational. After getting off to a bit of a rough start, the team improved throughout the tournament and is looking to strengthen their play even more before their next fall tournaments.

“It was a step in the right direction. We definitely didn’t get the results that we wanted but we have a young team and we’re starting to do the things that are important for our progress,” said seventh year head coach, Carlos Drada, “most importantly, the girls are starting to understand what’s necessary to win matches. It’s not only about playing well, winning is different. We need to get that mental edge and that pride that is a part of playing for the University of Kentucky.”

Sophomores Cece Witten and Caitlin McGraw, along with freshman Stephanie Fox seemed to have been on the same page as their coach. All three players lost in the first round of singles play but went on to battle and in win all of their remaining matches. The final matches were all close, with McGraw’s and Fox’s needing a third set, but ultimately Kentucky came out on top.

Junior Jessica Stiles also finished strong. After winning her first match, but losing her second, she was put in the position to take third place in her singles draw. She took on the challenge and defeated Jennifer Rabot of Purdue University in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2.

The wildcats will play next in the Roberta Allison Tournament in Tuscaloosa, Ala. from October 14-16.

For continuing coverage of UK women’s tennis log on to UKathletics.com.