WASHINGTON, Pa. — The West Liberty University women's tennis team opened its 2026-27 dual-match season with a 4-3 victory over Washington & Jefferson on Wednesday at the Janet Swanson Tennis Center.

The Hilltoppers (1-0) secured the doubles point by winning two of the three matches. Maria Martirosyan and Ana Sanchez teamed up for a 6-4 victory at No. 1 doubles, while Courtney Curnette and Sanchita Dabas earned a 7-5 win at No. 2. Washington & Jefferson claimed the No. 3 doubles match, 6-0.

West Liberty carried that momentum into singles play, earning three victories to secure the team win. Martirosyan dominated at No. 1 singles, defeating Keiran Moorhead 6-0, 6-1. Sanchez rallied after dropping the opening set at No. 2, winning 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 against Claire Loomis to give the Hilltoppers another point.

Dabas added a straight-set victory at No. 3 singles, defeating Bella Graham 6-2, 6-1. Washington & Jefferson picked up wins at No. 4 and No. 5 singles, with Keira Ross defeating Curnette 7-5, 6-2 and Austyn Paugh topping Kaylex Gibson 6-0, 6-3.

The deciding match came at No. 6 singles, where Elle Monaco battled Mackenzie Gumto. Monaco won the opening set 6-2 before Gumto took the second set 6-3 and prevailed 14-12 in the match tiebreaker. West Liberty's doubles point and three singles victories were enough to hold off the Presidents for the 4-3 team triumph.

The Hilltoppers will continue their fall schedule at the ITA Atlantic Regional in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, Oct. 16-19.


West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.