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UNCW Seahawk Ocean Classic Results
WILMINGTON, N.C. – The North Carolina Central University women’s tennis team concluded its fall campaign with a competitive showing at the UNCW Seahawk Ocean Classic from November 1 to November 3. The Eagles faced off against a challenging lineup, including Longwood University, Campbell University, UNC Greensboro, Seton Hall University, the University of Mount Olive, and the host, UNC Wilmington, showcasing their skills against a diverse field of competitors.
In singles play, junior Alejandra Hidalgo Vega, freshman Mariana Zottoli, and sophomore Patricia Palencia each achieved commendable success, netting two singles victories over the weekend. Hidalgo Vega secured wins against Campbell and UNCG, demonstrating her prowess on the court. Zottoli showcased her talent by triumphing over UNCG and Seton Hall, while Palencia dominated matches against UNCG and Mount Olive.
The team achieved a remarkable sweep against UNCG on Saturday and followed up with another impressive performance, defeating Mount Olive on Sunday in singles action. Junior Valeria San Miguel Soria and freshman Gabriela Mejia Arenas contributed significantly to the victories over Mount Olive by overcoming their Trojan opponents with skillful play. San Miguel Soria also excelled in doubles, partnering with Hidalgo Vega to earn victories against both Campbell and UNC Wilmington, further solidifying their success during the tournament.
The Eagles now look ahead to spring action, aiming to carry this momentum into the next season. Below are the complete results for NCCU from the tournament, reflecting their hard work and determination.
Friday, Nov. 1
NCCU vs Longwood – Doubles
Gnilozubova/Rizvanova (LU) def. San Miguel/Hidalgo Vega (NCCU) 6-3
Magia/Izarra (LU) def. Zottoli/Mejia Arenas (NCCU) 6-2
Campbell vs NCCU – Singles
Hidalgo Vega (NCCU) def. Prospolova (CU) 6-4, 6-2
Garcia (CU) def. San Miguel (NCCU) 6-2, 6-2
Kivity (CU) def. Zottoli (NCCU) 6-4, 6-2
Pieczynska (CU) def. Palencia (NCCU) 5-7, 7-6, [11-9]
Maras (CU) def. Mejia Arenas (NCCU) 6-2, 6-2
Saturday, Nov. 2
Campbell vs NCCU – Doubles
San Miguel/Hidalgo (NCCU) def. Ozel/Prospolova (CU) 6-3
Maras/Garcia (CU) def. Zottoli/Palencia (NCCU) 7-5
UNCW vs NCCU – Doubles
San Miguel/Hidalgo Vega (NCCU) def. Arli/Albarak (UNCW) 6-4
Shumate/Gomez (UNCW) def. Zottoli/Palencia (NCCU) 6-4
NCCU vs UNCG – Singles
Hidalgo Vega (NCCU) def. Birkevold (UNCG) def. 4-6, 6-3 (6)
Palencia (NCCU) def. Urso (UNCG) 6-2, 6-3
Zottoli (NCCU) def. Olexa (UNCG) 6-1, 6-2
Sunday, Nov. 3
NCCU vs. Seton Hall – Singles
Hart (SH) def. Hidalgo Vega (NCCU) 4-6, 6-3, 10-4
Zottoli (NCCU) def. Hietala (SH) 4, 2
Mt. Olive vs. NCCU – Singles
San Miguel (NCCU) def. Szovan (UMO) 6-2, 6-4
Palencia (NCCU) def. Howell (UMO) 6-1, 6-0
Mejia Arenas (NCCU) def. Esser (UMO) 6-2, 6-0
For more information on NCCU Athletics, visit NCCUEaglePride.com, or download the NCCU Eagles Athletics app.
**Interview with Alejandra Hidalgo Vega, Junior Player of NCCU Women’s Tennis Team**
**Interviewer:** Alejandra, congratulations on your team’s performance at the UNCW Seahawk Ocean Classic! You managed to achieve two singles victories during the tournament. How does it feel to conclude the fall season on such a high note?
**Alejandra Hidalgo Vega:** Thank you! It feels incredible to end our fall campaign with such strong results. All the hard work we put into practice really paid off, and it’s a great confidence boost for us moving forward.
**Interviewer:** You faced tough competitors, including teams like UNC Greensboro and Mount Olive. What were some of the challenges you encountered during these matches?
**Alejandra Hidalgo Vega:** Each match had its unique challenges. For example, when I played against the girl from Campbell, she had a very aggressive playing style. It required me to stay focused and adapt quickly. it pushed me to be at my best, which is what you want in a competitive environment.
**Interviewer:** Your performance was key in the team’s successful sweep against UNCG. What was the atmosphere like on that day, and how did it impact your game?
**Alejandra Hidalgo Vega:** The atmosphere was electric! Knowing we were working together as a team and supporting one another really motivated me. It’s uplifting to feel that kind of energy, and it often drives you to perform even better.
**Interviewer:** Besides your individual successes, the doubles team of you and Valeria San Miguel Soria also had notable victories. What makes your partnership effective on the court?
**Alejandra Hidalgo Vega:** Valeria and I have developed a good understanding of each other’s playing styles. We communicate well and trust each other to handle different situations during a match. It’s all about teamwork and knowing where to be at the right time.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead to the spring season, how do you plan to maintain this momentum and improve on your performance?
**Alejandra Hidalgo Vega:** We’ll definitely build on the skills and tactics we’ve developed during the fall. We’ll focus on refining our play, staying fit, and maintaining a positive mindset. We’re excited to carry this momentum into the spring and aim for even more success.
**Interviewer:** That sounds like a solid plan! Thank you for your time, Alejandra, and congratulations again on a fantastic fall season. Best of luck for the spring!
**Alejandra Hidalgo Vega:** Thank you! I appreciate it. We’ll continue to work hard and look forward to representing NCCU proudly.