By Meredith Haas ’24, editor
With weight on the shoulders of both LVC tennis teams to perform well, the Dutchmen utilized a spring break trip to help prepare for the start of their upcoming seasons.
Happy to escape PA’s wintry weather, both the men’s and women’s teams traveled to Hilton Head Island, SC, where they competed in the PTR Spring Tennis Fest tournament. This tournament runs for several weeks, bringing in talented Division I, II and III teams from all over the country.
The women’s team went 2-1 in three matches, defeating two strong teams. Losing the first match to Drew University 1-8, the team quickly bounced back and defeated Gordon College 7-2 and Roanoke College 6-3.
The men’s team played one more match than the women, winning two of their four matches. Starting off with a dominant 6-3 win over Drew University, the men lost their next two contests to Gordon College and Pfeiffer University. The Dutchmen ended on a high note, defeating Roanoke 5-4 in a well-fought match.
“I think spring break is a great warmup for the spring season and also good competition,” Dave Remsburg, head coach of the men’s tennis team, said. “My guys are now tuned up and ready for another run at the championship.”
While the main point of this trip is playing tough matches to get ready for the spring season, traveling to Hilton Head has some other added bonuses. For both teams, spring break is an opportunity for the players to build chemistry and bond in a relaxed environment. The teams spend all hours of the day together, sharing a house, eating meals together, and doing things outside of tennis.
“I’d say the trip is a great way to start the season,” Adam Warren, a sophomore on the men’s team, said. “We all get really close as a team which is important for all of us playing well as a unit.”
With some built-in free time between matches, the players had opportunities to explore Hilton Head Island and do other activities. This means time well-spent at the pool and beach days to cool off from the hot temperatures. The women’s team got to test out their golf skills at a driving range, and also left Hilton Head for a day trip to Savannah filled with good food and new memories.
For many players on the trip, this year was their first time getting to experience going to Hilton Head with the team. While Jenna Miner, a first-year on the women’s team, was unsure of what to expect, she left having had a good time.
“I’m so happy that I went,” Miner said. “The break in Hilton Head was amazing. I made so many great memories with the girls and was able to enjoy the beautiful beach weather. I hope to go again next year.”
The teams have returned back to LVC and will continue to prepare for their upcoming matches. Both teams will have their first match following spring break on Saturday, March 18 at Ursinus College, followed by a busy conference schedule.
For the full tennis team schedules and more information, head to www.godutchmen.com