Billings, Mont. – Montana State Billings women's tennis team continues to work through the growing pains of a young cast, as they have yet to pick up a victory on the 2013 season. The Yellowjackets faced fierce competition this week in Orlando, Fla. and remain winless on the year.

Kaitlin Nichols got MSUB's lone point in the Bellarmine University matchup as they fell 1-8 to the Knights. Nichols defeated M. Tucker in her No. 4 singles bout 6-2, 6-1. Versus Saginaw Valley State University, Emily Paffhausen won her No. 5 singles match against Katie Piorkowski 6-3, 6-0; but the Cardinals were too strong for the Yellowjackets and flew away with the 8-1 victory.

While MSU Billings continued to compete day in and day out, they were unable to record any points against the No. 38 nationally ranked Grand Valley State Lakers; and the Nova Southeastern Sharks, losing both matches 0-9.  

In their final bout against No. 45 Wayne State University, Libby Rutz dominated Jessica Kruczek 6-3, 6-1 in her No. 6 singles match to score the Yellowjackets only point in the event. The Warriors would eventually claim the victory, defeating MSUB 8-1.

“We continue to benefit from experiences gained against teams with a wider variety of playing styles,” stated assistant coach Catherine Germic. “This trip will help them on their way to becoming a strong contender in the conference.”

The Jackets will have three weeks off before they start their Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference schedule against Colorado Mesa University on Friday, March 29.