The Eastern Michigan University (EMU) tennis team secured a narrow 4-3 victory over Ball State University in a Mid-American Conference match held at the Chippewa Club in Ypsilanti. This win marked EMU’s first league victory of the season, improving their record to 8-8 overall and 1-2 in conference play. Ball State now holds an 8-5 overall record and is 2-1 in the MAC.
Head Coach Ryan Kucera praised his team’s determination, stating, “What a gritty performance by the team today; pure heart and fight.” He acknowledged that while the doubles point was challenging, the team managed to regroup effectively. Daniella Shved and Marta Komar were instrumental in leveling the score quickly after early setbacks.
Ball State initially took a lead by winning two doubles matches. However, EMU tied it up when Daniella Shved won her singles match at No. 2 with scores of 6-3, 6-1. The teams exchanged wins until Ball State edged ahead again with a three-set win at No. 4 singles.
Eastern Michigan rallied back as Viki Hazmukova clinched a comeback victory at No. 1 singles with scores of 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-1. Prerna Vichare then sealed the win for EMU with her first clinching point of the season, defeating her opponent at No. 3 singles with scores of 5-7, 7-5, 6-4.
The Eagles’ victory improved their historical record against Ball State to 34 wins out of their past encounters. Additionally, this match was notable for being EMU’s second consecutive one-point decision game.
Looking ahead, Eastern Michigan will host Western Michigan University and Miami University next weekend for more conference matches at home.
