Keith Mader
Sports editor

The women’s tennis team won against Willamette 8-1 to advance into the NWC Championships.
After the loss to Whitworth on April 4, the Wildcats entered the tournament as the second seed.
“The NWC Championships will be huge because we will most likely play Whitworth, which was our only loss, in the finals, with the winner going on the regional tournament,” sophomore Sophie Larson said.
The ’Cats stand at 16-4 and 14-2 in the NWC with losses only to Willamette.
Although only the second seed, Linfield is the seven-time tournament champion of wants to take their eighth crown.
Freshman Abby Olbrich has the best season record among the Wildcats with 17 wins and no losses and hopes to extend her streak.
“I am really proud of my record this year as a freshman, and I look forward to the remaining challenges this year and in future years at this level,” Olbrich said. “Even though I had a strong record, every match was a challenge in some way.”
Although she is successful playing singles, Olbrich said she values being a part of the team.
“I feel like the camaraderie of being part of the team is just as great of a reward as the competitive aspect of playing,” Olbrich said.
Throughout the season, Olbrich experienced a change in doubles partners as she left sophomore Sarah Click for Larson.
“At times it is a little nerve racking, but playing with Sallie, who is an upper classman, has a calming influence due to her experience,” Olbrich said.
Linfield plays against in the NWC championships tournament April 17 at the Yakima Tennis Club.