UNT Women’s Tennis Soars to 13 Wins, Echoing Past Successes
DENTON, Texas – The University of North Texas women’s tennis team is experiencing a resurgence, securing a 4-2 victory over UTSA on Friday and achieving their 13th win of the season. This marks the most wins for the Mean Green since 2019, signaling a promising trajectory under Head Coach Amanda Stone.
Dominating Doubles Play: A Foundation for Success
The Mean Green’s success is built on a strong foundation in doubles play. They’ve now won five consecutive doubles points and 10 of their last 12 opportunities. The duo of Lilly Schultz and Lou Chalard are leading the charge, boasting a 10-3 record this season – the first UNT doubles team to reach double-digit wins since Maria Kononova and Tamuna Kutubidze.
Marina Adati and Ujin Batsukh are also making waves, achieving a 2-0 record as a team in doubles action, including a decisive 6-0 victory against UTSA.
Singles Standouts Fuel the Victory
In singles play, Lou Chalard secured a quick victory at line two with a 6-1, 6-1 win, improving her singles record to 8-4 this season. Marina Adati followed with a thrilling 7-5, 7-5 win at line three, marking her fifth singles win of the season.
Carolina Laydner clinched the match for UNT with a 6-4, 6-1 win at line one, bringing her singles record to an impressive 11-3.
Coach Stone’s Impact and Program Momentum
Head Coach Amanda Stone highlighted the team’s adaptability and individual contributions. “The doubles and the top of the lineup today were outstanding,” Stone said. “It was a tough match coming off the big win last week and having a bit of a break. The team handled things and adjusted well to get the job done.”
Stone was hired in June 2023 and has already led the Mean Green to their first postseason appearance since 2014, a testament to her coaching prowess. Her career winning percentage of .663 ranks among the top 50 in NCAA history.
Looking Ahead: A Chance to Break Records
With one more win, the UNT women’s tennis team will achieve their most victories in a season (14) since 2013. They will continue their season on the road, facing Tulsa on Sunday at 1:30 PM.
The Rise of Women’s College Tennis: Trends and Insights
The success of the UNT women’s tennis team reflects a broader trend of increasing competitiveness and investment in collegiate women’s tennis programs. Several factors are contributing to this growth.
Increased Athletic Scholarships and Funding
More universities are recognizing the value of women’s athletics and are increasing the number of athletic scholarships available for tennis players. This attracts higher-caliber recruits and allows programs to invest in better coaching and facilities.
Growing International Recruitment
Collegiate tennis programs are increasingly looking to international players to bolster their rosters. Players from Europe, Asia, and Latin America bring a high level of skill and experience, raising the overall level of competition.
Emphasis on Strength and Conditioning
Modern tennis demands a high level of physical fitness. Programs are now prioritizing strength and conditioning training to facilitate players prevent injuries and improve their performance on the court.
Data Analytics in Training and Strategy
Like many sports, tennis is embracing data analytics. Coaches are using data to track player performance, identify weaknesses, and develop more effective training and game strategies.
FAQ
Q: How long has Amanda Stone been the head coach at UNT?
A: Amanda Stone was hired on June 21, 2023.
Q: What was UNT’s record in the 2024-25 season?
A: The Mean Green had a 24-25 record through the 2025 season.
Q: What is the significance of the doubles point in college tennis?
A: Winning the doubles point awards a team one point towards the overall match score. It often sets the tone for the singles matches.
Q: What is UNT’s record against ranked opponents this season?
A: UNT secured their first ranked win since 2016 against UTSA, who was ranked No. 70.
Pro Tip: Focus on consistent doubles play. A strong doubles team can provide a significant advantage in college tennis.
Stay updated on the UNT Women’s Tennis team’s progress by visiting MeanGreenSports.com.
