Sept. 8, 2009
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa.; - Names and photos of former Nittany Lion greats line the walls of the Sarni Tennis Center, but the Penn State women's tennis team had the chance to meet them in person this weekend. Former and current women's tennis players and coaches bonded this weekend during the program's inaugural alumni event.
"It was great having everyone back at Penn State," said head coach Dawna Prevette. "It is important for us that they have a strong connection to the program. I am looking forward to bringing more alums back for future events."
Alumni in attendance included Candace Royer ('71), Sue Cray Bohn ('75), Linda Learmonth Groth ('85), Sue Whiteside ('83), Anne Beasley Cook ('81), Cherie Dow Baker, Carol Backentose Miller ('75), Carol Daniels ('82), Gail Ramsay ('80), Romi Walker Power ('87), Joan Nessler ('61) and Carol Zajac Wirth ('81).
Alums and their families were invited to watch the team practice on Friday evening, followed by a social and catered dinner at the Sarni Tennis Center. On Saturday, the group held a tailgate before the Penn State football team's season opener against Akron.
The Lions open fall play this weekend at the 17th annual William & Mary Invitational in Williamsburg, Va. Friday through Sunday. The team will have a few weeks off before traveling to Pacific Palisades, Calif. for the pre-qualifying rounds of the All-American Championships starting on Oct. 3.