The women’s tennis team showed promise in its season opener hosted by Penn State University on Jan. 18. Although they fell 6-1 to No. 49 Nittany Lions, the Bison’s performance gave hope for a successful spring season.

The score may not have reflected it, but the Orange and Blue played well, with Melissa Parks ’17 stepping up in the No. 6 singles spot and earning the Bison’s only point of the day. Her victory came in a straight set win 6-2, 6-1. Many of the other Bison pushed the Nittany Lions, hanging with their opponents through long rallies and forcing several sets to extra points.

“It felt good to return to match play this weekend against Penn State. The team played well against a tough opponent and we look forward to a great season,” Stephanie Pino ’16 said.

Although Penn State held out for victories in the No. 2 and 3 spots, the combination of Elena Vidrascu ’14 and Maria Cioffi ’16 held on to a 5-4 lead in the No. 1 doubles spot before officials stopped play, declaring the Penn State match victory.

The lone Bison victor, Parks, described the match as a positive learning experience that will ultimately prepare them for their upcoming conference matches next month.

“Ultimately it came down to who had the bigger serve and on that day it was Penn State,” Parks said.

The Bison plan to dedicate the next two weeks to training before they travel to Williamsport on Feb. 1 to face St. Francis (Pa).