Billings, Mont. – Montana State Billings women's tennis team faced a very talented field in the Grand Canyon University Invitational this weekend. While the Yellowjackets won several matches, they were unable to come away with a victory.

MSUB faced six teams, with three being ranked nationally. Grand Canyon women entered the invitational No. 14 in the Nov. 16, 2012 International Tennis Association Preseason Poll. Tarleton State was ranked No. 28 and Academy of Art, No. 37.

The Yellowjackets were shutout by Grand Canyon, Fresno Pacific and Azusa Pacific. Emily Paffhausen defeated Sonoma State's Trotta Spencer in their singles match (6-0, 6-0), but the Seawolves claimed the 8-1 victory.
MSUB also fell 8-1 to Academy of Art; Madeline Loomis defeated Kinga Kurczbuch (6-4, 6-0) to score the Jackets only point in the competition.

In their final bout against No. 28 Tarleton, Loomis registered the only point for the Jackets again as the Urban Knights took the 8-1 victory.

“Our team was challenged in a variety of ways on this trip,” stated assistant coach Catherine Germic. “They developed a deeper understanding of what it takes to compete at a high level and the preparation necessary to meet their expectations.”

Next on the agenda for the Yellowjackets will be a tournament in Orlando, Fla. from March 5-9; where MSUB will face four different universities.

*Note* Scottsdale Community College canceled the Feb. 5 match