By: Zach Freihofer, Sports Information Graduate Assistant
HUNTSVILLE, Texas — Northwestern State tennis continued its strong fall showing with several standout performances at the Bearkat Invitational, highlighted by four singles victories over conference opponents.
Zoi Spyrou led the Lady Demons with a gritty comeback win against SFA's Felicia Back, rebounding from a slow start to take a 0-6, 6-4, 10-4 victory.
Senior transfer
Lolita Hukasian continued her steady fall campaign, rolling past Avery Kinsey in straight sets, 6-0, 6-3.
Pika Doberlet followed suit, dominating Lamar's Kate Labenski 6-0, 6-1 to cap a near-flawless outing.
Despite the team's success, the day featured several tightly contested matches.
Martina Acebedo Bonocore battled through a marathon against SFA's Antonella Taco, falling 7-6, 4-6, 13-11 in one of the tournament's most competitive showdowns.
Maria Farina dropped her match 6-1, 6-1 to Sonja Rooth, while
Athina Grigoriadou fought hard before falling 7-6 (5), 6-2 to Ana Paula Chavez.
Head coach
Marcos Morelli praised the team's effort and competitive drive throughout the weekend.
"It was a good opportunity for the girls to face strong competition and see how their level measures up," Morelli said. "All of the matches were competitive, and this event featured high-level tennis across the board. The team continues to build confidence each week through their preparation and consistency."
Morelli also highlighted the progress made in doubles and the team's approach heading into the next phase of the fall season.
"We've been practicing hard, and that's where confidence is built," he said. "Now it's about committing to our style of play from start to finish and carrying that momentum into the next tournament."
The Lady Demons return home next week to compete in the Southland Conference Fall Masters, continuing their fall campaign on familiar courts in Natchitoches.
Northwestern State Tennis
Bearkat Invitational – Sunday Results
Singles
Zoi Spyrou (NSU) def. Felicia Back (SFA) 0-6, 6-4, 10-4
Sonja Rooth (SFA) def.
Maria Farina (NSU) 6-1, 6-1
Antonella Taco (SFA) def.
Martina Acebedo Bonocore (NSU) 7-6, 4-6, 13-11
Ana Paula Chavez (SFA) def.
Athina Grigoriadou (NSU) 7-6 (5), 6-2
Lolita Hukasian (NSU) def. Avery Kinsey (SFA) 6-0, 6-3
Pika Doberlet (NSU) def. Kate Labenski (LAMAR) 6-0, 6-1