The Houghton University women's tennis team dropped their home opener Friday afternoon against a solid Grove City Wolverines squad. Despite coming up short on the scoreboard, the Highlanders put up a gritty performance with some excellent individual performances along the way. 

The Highlanders picked up wins at first doubles, with Chloe Esch and Elise Swanson winning 8-5, and in singles Elise Swanson and Marilynn Amborski grabbed victories at first and third singles respectively. Swanson battled through a tough first set and then cruised to her victory 7-6 (7-4), 6-0 and Amborski squeezed out two tight sets 6-4, 6-4. The freshman duo of Clancey Cockle and Arija Grant teamed up at the third doubles flight, and put up a valiant effort losing 8-3 in a match that was closer than the score reflected. 

"Super proud of the effort and positive attitude the ladies displayed all afternoon," Coach Shilvock said post match. "Chloe and Elise played some of the best doubles this program has ever seen, and for their collegiate debut, Clancey and Arija showed great poise in the purple and gold. I am excited to build and get better as a unit each match." 

The Highlanders will get right back on the courts tomorrow as they take on Brockport at home 1pm.