LAS VEGAS, NV (March 11, 2013) – The Hawai'i Pacific Women's Tennis Team (8-0) opened the Las Vegas Tournament, which is constantly one of the top tennis tournament in the country, with a win over Fresno Pacific University (11-3) 6-3.

HPU jumped out to a 2-1 lead after doubles. Vivian Hansen and Magdalena Smejova teamed up for an 8-5 win at first doubles. Ielyzaveta Rybakova and Celina Goetti had little trouble at third doubles, winning 8-2.

 Ielyzaveta Rybakova defeated 16th ranked Marie Boura at first singles despite losing the first set 0-6. It was the opposite at second singles where Celina Goetti won the opening set 6-0, but dropped the subsequent two sets. Magdalena Smejova got a big win over 22nd ranked Erika Januskova in straight sets.  Lea Kruse-Utermann left no doubt at sixth singles with a 6-3, 6-0 victory.

"I'm really proud of the girls for pulling this one out.  Fresno Pacific always plays tough.  We had a shaky start in singles in some of the matches but were able to get the win in the end.  We are nearing the end of a pretty grueling road trip, and hope to finish strong," said head coach Lauren Conching.  

The Sea Warriors now have the most difficult part of the road trip with number three Abilene Christian tomorrow and then top ranked Armstrong Atlantic on Wednesday.

Doubles
1. Vivian Hansen/Magdalena Smejova (HPU) def. Petra Jurova/Marie Boura (FPU) 8-5
2. Erika Januskova/Katarena Palivets (FPU) def. Lea Kruse-Utermann/Karen Ramirez (HPU) 8-6
3. Ielyzaveta Rybakova/Celina Goetti (HPU) def. Anna Mikhaylova/Erin Carlson (FPU) 8-2

Singles
1. Ielyzaveta Rybakova (HPU) def. #16 Marie Boura (FPU) 0-6, 6-2, 6-3
2. Petra Jurova (FPU) def. #40 Celina Goetti (HPU) 0-6, 6-3, 6-1
3. Vivian Hansen (HPU) def. Katarena Palivets (FPU) 6-4, 3-6, 6-3
4. Magdalena Smejova (HPU) def. #22 Erika Januskova (FPU) 6-3, 6-1
5. Anna Mikhaylova (FPU) def. Carrie Shuler (HPU) 6-4, 6-2
6. Lea Kruse-Utermann (HPU) def. Erin Carlson (FPU) 6-3, 6-0