GREENSBORO, N.C. – Paul Thomson made his coaching debut for the UNC Greensboro (UNCG) women's tennis team Friday during a 7-0 setback to Georgia State at the Piedmont Indoor Tennis Center.
 
Despite the result, Thomson saw some bright spots that he believes will form the foundation of future success for the Spartan program.
 
"This was a tough day for the team and a tough week for everyone," Thomson said. "New coach, new routines new ideas and all in the middle of the season. I do really like what these young ladies have to offer. Building a team is like cooking a great gumbo. Individually, all the ingredients might be good by themselves. But when blended they become something amazing. We just need a little time to blend them together to get that something amazing. We are just warming up the stove."
 
Senior Erika Barquero battled at No. 1 singles in the match of the contest. Even though she lost, 6-4,1-6, 11-9, Barquero displayed true grit and Spartan spirit in battling for points and making big shots during the match. This was the only singles match decided in three sets.
 
Hannah Mitchell and Olivia Gallagher held a 5-3 lead before their match was called after the Panthers had officially secured the doubles point with wins at No. 1 and No. 2. Mitchell and Gallagher are freshmen and are solid building blocks for the Spartans.
 
UNCG returns to action Sunday when it hosts Richmond at noon.
 
Results
Singles
Eva Chivu (GS) d. Erika Barquero, 6-4, 1-6, 11-9
Sofya Golubovskaya (GS) d. Ariana Chan, 6-1, 6-3
Andreea Stanescu (GS) d. Juliana Craft, 6-2, 6-2
Alexia Alvarez (GS) d. Eugenia Camacho, 6-3, 6-0
Angel Carney (GS) d. Hannah Mitchell, 6-1, 6-2
Ellie Aldrich (GS) d. Olivia Gallagher, 6-3, 6-3
 
Doubles
Golubovskaya and Carney (GS) d. Barquero and Chan, 6-1
Aldrich and Stanescu (GS) d. Craft and McCullough Perry, 6-3
Mitchell and Gallagher (UNCG) led Alvarez and Kumar, 5-3, match was unfinished.