Saint Peter, Minn. – Nebraska Wesleyan men's and women's tennis opened their 2025 campaigns with a challenging doubleheader against nationally ranked Gustavus Adolphus on Saturday. Both Prairie Wolves squads fell 7-0 to the Gusties.

How It Happened
The men's team faced a steep challenge against #14 Gustavus Adolphus, but several players showed resilience in competitive matches. In doubles, the duo of Jacob Balfany and Sam Rademacher pushed their opponents at the No. 1 spot, narrowly falling 6-4 in a hard-fought battle. The Gusties secured the doubles point with wins at No. 2 and No. 3, but Balfany and Rademacher's performance against a top-tier team was a bright spot.

In singles, Balfany continued to shine, taking his opponent to the brink in the first set before falling 6-4, 6-3 at the No. 1 position. Freshman Gavin Nichols also showed promise at No. 2 singles, battling to a 6-3, 6-4 loss.

On the women's side, the Prairie Wolves faced #23 Gustavus Adolphus, a perennial powerhouse. The Gusties swept doubles play, but Nebraska Wesleyan's top pair of Anna Burt and Ella Ford fought hard in a 6-0 loss at No. 1.

In singles, Burt led the way at No. 1, winning three games in a 6-1, 6-0 loss to Molly Austin. Ford also showed grit at No. 2, taking three games in a 6-0, 6-3 defeat. Junior Crystal Craft had a strong showing at No. 3, winning five games in a 6-1, 6-4 loss, while sophomore Parker Brown and junior Caitlin Hudson gained valuable experience in their matches.

Up Next
Both teams will look to build on Saturday's experience as they continue their spring schedules. Both teams travel to face Bethany Lutheran tomorrow morning.