Battle Creek, MI – Like many other Spring sport programs this year, the Grace Christian University tennis program was more ready than ever for their first match considering the cancellation of last year's season a day prior to their first official action. To kick off this year, both the men's and women's teams traveled to Minges Creek Athletic Club to face the Olivet College Comets (NCAA DIII). 

Jared Lowder performed at a high level in his first career singles match, topping his opponent 6-1, 6-1 for the lone win of the day for the Tigers' men's team at #1 singles. Zane Draper and Cam Staal lost 5-8 at second doubles in their first action, and Draper battled until the end at #4 singles as well, falling 5-7, 4-6.

Amiah Lake won at #6 singles for the women in dominant fashion (6-1, 6-1).  Ellie Simmons won her first set at #4 and fell in a very competitive third set tie-breaker when it was all said and done. The #2 doubles and #3 doubles teams both held early leads before sliding late and allowing the Comets to come back to win 8-4.

"We are taking away a ton of positives from our first match Saturday, and spirits are high," said Head Coach Cory Jamieson. "Though we've been practicing for two months, there is no substitute for in-match experience, and I think every single individual performed well and got better Saturday."

Next up for the Tigers men and women is a home match at Premier Athletic & Tennis Club this Friday at 6:30 pm.