MOUNT BERRY, Ga. - The Berry women faced Wallace State Community College in a rematch of their meet in Fall 2024. Their last match went well but Wallace State was unable to field a full, healthy playing roster. This time, they brought 6 players who were ready to compete and to bring a stronger challenge to the Berry squad.

Doubles began with a strong and decisive win at third doubles, as the experienced players Lacey Craig and Sakura Manning won 6-0 with exceptional volleys and high return

percentages. The new second doubles pairing of senior Olivia Walton and freshman Paige Evans were unable to break through their opponent's consistent baseline game, losing 1-6, but demonstrated strong resolve and a consistent evolution of their game with improved net play and strategies. The now experienced pairing of Lauren Masteller and Saris Mejia at first doubles won 6-2 to secure the doubles point for Berry and put the team in the driver's seat leading into the singles matches.

The women started strong as Sophie Gibbs at sixth singles and Olivia Walton at fifth singles blew past their opponents, winning 6-0, 6-0 and 6-1, 6-2, respectively. Now up 3-0 in match scores, the Berry women only needed one more win to clinch the meet but this proved challenging as Sakura Manning at fourth singles and Lacey Craig at third singles ultimately lost 2-6, 6-7 and 4-6, 5-7, respectively in two closely contested matches. Saris was on track at second singles to win the match, but her opponent found the mental strength and a second wind to win 6-1, 6-7, 3-6. With the match score tied 3-3, it was up to Lauren Masteller at first singles to clinch the victory. After losing the first set, Lauren was able to reset her mind and never looked back in a 1-6, 6-2, 6-4 win which showcased Lauren's unmatchable grit and stamina.

Wallace State Community College brought a very competitive team and pushed the Berry women to a deciding match, but Berry ultimately prevailed in what amounted to a display of their continued improvement and excellence on the court. The women look forward to their next contest this Saturday, February 22nd vs. Milligan University during Pack The House day.



1. Lauren Masteller and Sara Mejia defeated Wallace 6-2
2. Paige Evans and Olivia Walton fell to Wallace 1-6
3. Lacey Craig and Sakura Manning defeated Wallace 6-0


1. Lauren Masteller defeated Wallace 1-6, 6-2, 6-4
2. Sara Mejia fell to Wallace 6-1, 6-7 (4), 3-6
3. Lacey Craig fell to Wallace 4-6, 5-7
4. Sakura Manning fell to Wallace 2-6, 6-7 (2)
5. Olivia Walton defeated Wallace 6-1, 6-2
6. Sophie Gibbs defeated Wallace 6-0, 6-0