Jan. 22, 2010

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The Gonzaga University women's tennis team suffered a setback to the Air Force Academy in its seasons-opener Friday afternoon. Newcomer Prue Teitzel picked up the Zags point with a three-set victory in her first collegiate match, beating Tahlia Smoke the No. 102 ranked player in the country.

The Bulldogs (0-1) battled through the doubles matches but eventually surrendered one point to Air Force (1-1) en route to suffering to a 6-1 loss to the Falcons. In singles play, Zags sophomore Kristina Zauere battled her way at No. 2 singles but eventually went on to suffer a 4-6, 6-0, 6-3 defeat. Teitzel, out of Brisbane, Australia went on to record her first career victory with a three-set come from behind win at No. 4 singles.

The Bulldogs continue play in Colorado Springs, Colo. with a match against Seattle University Saturday.

Air Force 6, GONZAGA UNIVERSITY 1

Singles competition:
1. Christen Monreal (AF) def. Rika Mehndiratta (GON) 6-1, 6-4
2. Christine Molina (AF) def. Kristina Zauere (GON) 4-6, 6-0, 6-3
3. Hannah Dake (AF) def. Danielle Farmer (GON) 6-4, 6-1
4. Prue Teitzel (GON) def. #102 Tahlia Smoke (AF) 2-6, 6-3, 6-4
5. Melissa Cecil (AF) def. Sophie Lantta (GON) 6-1, 6-0
6. Sarah Cassman (AF) def. Britta Stime (GON) 6-4, 6-2

Doubles competition:
1. Hannah Dake/Melissa Cecil (AF) def. Rika Mehndiratta/Danielle Farmer (GON) 8-0
2. Sarah Cassman/Allie Chermel (AF) def. Kristina Zauere/Clare Dodge (GON) 8-6
3. Christine Molina/Christen Monreal (AF) def. Sophie Lantta/Prue Teitzel (GON) 8-6

Notes:
Air Force 1-1
GONZAGA UNIVERSITY 0-1