The Saint Mary’s College Belles opened their 2025-26 tennis season in dominant fashion, sweeping both Indiana University East and Anderson University 7-0 in back-to-back matches. The wins improved the Belles to 2-0 on the young season, while IU East fell to 2-7 and Anderson dropped to 2-3.
The Belles set the tone early with strong doubles play. Senior Emma Kealy from Hudson, Ohio, and sophomore Shannon Dudy from Glenview, Illinois, captured a 6-2 win at the top doubles spot, while junior Anna Gardner from Houston and sophomore Odessa Norton from Carmel, Indiana, cruised 6-1 at No. 2. Sophomore Lanie Brant from Stevensville, Michigan, and freshman Mia Graziano from Western Springs, Illinois, closed out doubles with a 6-1 victory at No. 3.
Singles competition saw the Belles continue their dominance across the lineup. Kealy opened with a commanding 6-0, 6-2 win at No. 1, followed by Dudy at No. 3 with a 6-2, 6-1 victory. Gardner secured No. 2 6-1, 6-1, while Brant won 6-2, 6-2 at No. 4. Graziano and Norton added decisive wins at No. 5 and No. 6, 6-1, 6-2 and 6-0, 6-3, respectively. Freshmen Raelynn Pickup and Maria Manzella also contributed victories in alternate singles and doubles matchups.
With a combination of veteran leadership and strong contributions from underclassmen, the Belles showcased depth and poise in both matches.
The Belles are back in action on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at Grace College.
