WOMEN'S TENNIS: Ferris Falls In Regional Opener

MIDLAND - Ferris State University played with a lot of fight, but came up short in the opening round of the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional on Friday (May 6) at the Gerstacker Tennis Center in Midland.

Ferris had its season come to an end (12-9) as it dropped a 5-2 decision to Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference rival Wayne State University. Wayne won two of the three doubles matches and then three of the first four completed singles contests to claim victory and advance in the regional tournament.

It brings the season to an end for the Bulldogs of head coach Alex Palladino, who is working hard to rebuild the tradition of excellence in women's tennis at Ferris. This team has taken some very positive strides in advancing to NCAA play and representing the school well.

The Bulldogs did post a win in doubles competition as the No. 3 team of Daniela Dimas and Melissa Flowers topped Debora Correa and Jennifer Bradford, 8-6.

In singles competition, Natalie Diorio posted the lone win for the Bulldogs as she defeated Correa 6-2, 6-3.

This year's NCAA Tournament appearance was the 18th overall for the Bulldogs and just their first since 2007.

CAPTION: Ferris State University's Tiffany Rheynard eyes the ball in Thursday's NCAA Regional Tennis match in Midland. (Photo by Travis McCurdy, Northwood University)