Carolyn Esserman Photo Doug Kohen

High school women's tennis was back in full swing on Tuesday, September 22, as the Lady Matadors hosted the Lady Cougars in a league showdown that pitted two one-loss teams against each other. Despite a strong showing from some of their younger players, and a solid effort in their doubles matches, Campolindo was unable to stop Miramonte in the singles matchups, as Miramonte went on to win by a score of 7-2. Both teams did well competing in the sweltering Indian summer heat, which reached the high nineties.
Miramonte came into this match with a 9-1 overall mark and a 2-0 record in league play. Their only loss came against a powerful Mission San Jose team in the James Logan tournament. Campolindo had an equally impressive record coming into this matchup, sporting an 8-1 overall record, with a 2-0 league mark. Their only loss came at the hands of Miramonte in the finals of the James Logan tournament.
Miramonte got off to a fast start after their #1 seed, junior Anastasia Kaiser, won her match 6-1, 6-0. Referring to her opponent, Nicole Wedlake, Kaiser said "We're friends; I hope that next time we play, we'll be able to have just as much fun as today."
"We've played teams that have brought kids that are in the top ten in the nation, in her [Kaiser's] age group, and she doesn't always win, but she always gives it her best," said Miramonte head coach Mark LeHocky.
Miramonte sophomore Hanne Andersen used her strong forehand to win the #2 seed singles match 6-3, 6-1.
Despite a short lapse in the second set, Miramonte senior Carolyn Esserman was able to use good footwork and a strong second serve to outlast Campolindo's Natalie Korich, 6-1 and 7-6, after a 7-2 second set tie-breaker.
The Cougars made a good impression on the Matadors with their strong doubles play. Freshman Miranda Hill and sophomore Karina Lameraner won their match for the Cougars 6-4, 6-2.
Campolindo's lone singles victory came from none other than a freshman, Tori Perella, who showed that she will be a force for years to come. Perella won her match 7-5, 7-6, after a 7-3 second set tiebreaker. Perella may be a freshman, but she plays like an upperclassman and she understands the significance of the rivalry. "It's not like we're enemies, but it's still a pretty big rivalry, said Perella.
"She (Perella) played really well the last two matches, very solid and steady and composed, especially for a freshman," said Campolindo head coach Steve Robinson.
Miramonte hosts Acalanes tomorrow, Thursday, October 1st and Campolindo has a bye.