Marlene Estenssoro Pineda, Student Intern 

CHARLESTON, S.C. – North Carolina A&T opened its women's tennis season Saturday against the Charleston Southern Buccaneers at the Gary Clark Banks, Sr. Tennis Center. In Big South Conference action, the Aggies lost to the Bucs, 6-0. 

"I told the ladies before the match to loosen up, enjoy the match," said assistant coach Darlene Staton. "We knew opening the season with a conference match would not be easy, but the most important thing was to start the season with all the tools we have been working out since the beginning."

Freshman Cielo Tapia-Cruz played her first collegiate match at No.3 singles against Bucs sophomore Tiffany Pyrits. Unfortunately, Tapia-Cruz lost 6-1, 6-2. 

"I was feeling a little nervous because I was about to play my first college match," Tapia-Cruz said. "It is a big difference playing in college than the juniors or the (International Tennis Federation). Some things change as to how we play only one set in doubles and how we do not warm up with the girls we are about to play against. I tried to do my best and fight for every ball even when I wasn't comfortable with my game and shots. I know that it could be a better match, and I could play better. But today wasn't the day."

Sophomore Trinity Oliver took on the challenge of the Aggies playing their first match against a conference opponent. Oliver lost to Kassandra Distaulo, 6-1, 6-1 at No. 5 singles. 

"The score does not reflect my fight," said Oliver. "I ran after every ball and hit my spots and angles as best I could."

Sophomore Manuela Jimenez played at No. 4 against Zoe Cauthen, 6-2, 6-4. "I played well. I wish I had maintained my service when it was 4-4 in the second set. I think that would have changed the result of the match."

Senior Marlene Estenssoro Pineda played Lauri Marti and lost 6-1, 6-1 at No. 2 singles. The last player on the court for the Aggies was sophomore Florielvis Hurtado Pernaleta, who lost 6-1, 6-3 against junior Luiza Fullana. 

"This was the first match of the season, and even though I did not win, I fought for every ball," said Pernaleta. "A lot of positive things came with this match. My consistency was great, and my conditioning was even better. It feels great to know that all the effort we put into our workouts and practices is working. Let's keep fighting. AGGIE PRIDE!" 

The Bucs took the doubles point by sweeping both matches. The Aggies are back in action at 2 p.m., Monday, Feb. 21, against Anderson University at Dudley High School.