October 22, 1998

RALEIGH, N.C.--The University of North Carolina women's tennis team turned in an outstanding performance this past weekend in the Wolfpack Invitational at North Carolina State University. The team was making its debut under new Tar Heel women's tennis coach Roland Thornqvist.

Jessica Zaganczyk proved to be the star of the event for Carolina as she captured the Flight A singles title without dropping a set. She defeated Gloria Guntitas of East Carolina, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) in the championship match.

"Jessica played exceptionally well," said Thornqvist. "In fact our play in singles all around was very good. Courtney Zalinski, Sarah Hawkins and Carolina Hill all did a great job for us. I am especially proud of Hill's performance as she is a freshman and this was her first ever collegiate competition.

"However, we do have some work to do in doubles. Still I thing this was a strong start for us and I think our young women gained some confidence this weekend, which they desperately needed."

Zalinski made the finals of the Flight B singles before falling in the championship match to Marissa Gildermeister of N.C. State, 7-6 (7-4), 3-6, 6-4. Hill reached the title match of Flight C singles before falling to Kelly Weaver of Virginia, 6-4, 6-2.

UNC's Emi Shaffer won the consolation play back of the Flight D singles, defeating Katie Mason of N.C. State, 6-1, 6-0 Sunday. Sarah Hawkins reached the consolation final of the Flight A singles before losing to Jenny Gonzalez of UNC-Greensboro, 6-2, 6-2.