The Gustavus women’s tennis team won its third consecutive MIAC Playoff Tournament title on Saturday with a 9-0 semifinal win over St. Benedict and then an 8-1 Championship victory over St. Olaf. With the tournament title, the Gusties receive an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. This will be the 22nd consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance for the Gusties. The NCAA will announce the regional pairings for the weekend of May 8-9 sometime before noon on Monday.
Against St. Ben’s in the semifinals, Gustavus jumped out to a 3-0 lead after doubles play. The #1 doubles match was very competitive as Sierra Krebasbach and Sam Frank rallied to claim a thrilling 9-7 win over Sarah Rossman and Rachel Tiegs of St. Ben’s. In singles play, Gustavus claimed five of six singles matches in straight sets, Sam Frank played a marathon match at #4 singles and she rallied to defeat Lauren Jones 6-1, 6-7, 11-9.
Against St. Olaf in the championship match, the Gusties once again got off to a quick start winning all three doubles matches. In singles play, Gustavus won five of six singles matches in straight sets. The #4 singles match was very tight with the Ole’s Claire Carlson (STO) knocking off Sam Frank 2-6, 7-5, 1-0 (10-7).