by Jules Gonsoulin

sports editor

The Millsaps women’s tennis team travelled to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina last week to compete in three matches against Nazareth College, Gettysburg College and Roanoke College. The Majors defeated its opponents by scores of 8-1, 6-2, and 6-3, respectively. As the women’s team continues to improve and add to their win column, the steady leadership of young players, namely, Ashley Ford, is becoming more evident on the court.

Ford had an impressive outing this week, winning all five matches, singles and doubles, which she competed in. What’s more impressive than her consistent ability to win matches, however, is her initiative in stepping into a leadership role in only her sophomore year at Millsaps.

Ford possesses a fun and relaxed approach to her role as the number one player on the team. Ford spoke about her position as a team leader, saying, “Playing line 1 as a sophomore is an incredible honor! All the hours and hard work that go into developing as a player gives me the opportunity to represent this amazing school and I am enjoying every minute of it! I don’t see many challenges with playing line 1, for me it is just a fun way of releasing my competitive spirits.”

While the women’s team has already racked up a stellar 9-2 overall record, there is reason to believe the team can accomplish much more. Ford is enthusiastic about the rest of this season and the future of the women’s tennis program.

“Our women’s team has an outstanding amount of potential to be a phenomenal and highly competitive in our conference. We are a young team composed of competitive women who strive to be the best that we can be everyday. I am fortunate to be part of a team that feels like family and this is a big part of what makes a team great!”

Ford and the women’s team return to action March 18 in their first Southern Athletic Association matchup, against Birmingham Southern College in Birmingham, AL. The first matches are scheduled to commence at 12 p.m.