MOBILE, Ala. (May 15, 2023) - Back for the second year in a row, the no. 11 St. Thomas University (STU) Women's Tennis Team is set to begin play at the NAIA National Tournament Tuesday, May 16 and 10 a.m. central time against no. 23 Ottawa (Kan.) at the Mobile Tennis Complex.

The Bobcats have had one of the best regular seasons while battling a very competitive conference slate. Lia Peña has led the way at the top of the line and currently ranked 30th in the ITA rankings.

Court one doubles team of Isabella Ciancaglini Ribera and Maria Carme Ibanez Navarro are ranked 14th nationally holding a 15-3 record and currently winning seven of their last 10 matches. 

Annie Carrera and Lauren Seemann join Ibañez Navarro and Peña as returners for their second straight trip as the core helped guide the team here last year. Ciancaglini Ribera, Jenesie Burgos and Jamison Geoffreys will be making their first appearance.

Ottawa qualified win an automatic berth winning the KCAC Championship over McPherson. This is the Braves first national tournament appearance. On the season Ottawa went 14-3 with an 8-1 record in KCAC play. 

The Bobcats and Braves will face off Tuesday, May 16 at 9 a.m. central time at the Mobile Tennis Complex. The winner will advance to play Middle Georgia State on Wednesday, May 17 at 9 a.m. 

-STU-