SURPRISE, Ariz. – After securing the No. 5 seed in the PacWest Tournament, the Point Loma women's tennis team played in the opening round against No. 12 Hawaii Hilo. In their second meeting of the season, the Sea Lions were able to sweep the Vulcans yet again to earn a place in the tournament quarterfinals.
 
The Sea Lions were able to earn the doubles point quickly with superior play from their top two tandems. Gabi Armas and Ellie Gamble made quick work of their opponent with a 6-1 win on court one. Shelby Groeneveld and Michelle Torres weren't far behind as they secured the 6-3 win and the doubles point for their team on court two.
 
That success continued into singles play as PLNU earned early wins on every court. Torres was the first to win a point for the Sea Lions with a 6-1, 6-0 victory at No. 5 singles. Nicole Camaratta was able to add to her season-leading singles wins with a 6-2, 6-1 win on court six. Gamble would clinch the match for Point Loma taking the 6-4, 6-3 win at No. 3 singles, punching the team's ticket into the quarterfinals.

Team Records
Point Loma 11-6, Hawaii Hilo 5-11
 
Wheeler's Words
On his team coming out prepared to play: "The ladies did a tremendous job of playing with great intensity, focus, and positive energy in today's match. Great momentum leading into tomorrow's match with Sonoma."

On how his team needs to execute in order to earn a return trip to the semifinals: "The girls need to simply just play their game, and play with confidence and trust in their ability and they have a great chance of being successful against Sonoma and reaching the semi-finals."

On being mentally and physically prepared for playing several days in a row: "Playing multiple back to back match sets this season has prepared us for this tournament. Preparation and recovery from the match before will be keys in staying successful throughout this tournament. Also being efficient in every match is important which is why today's efficient win against Hilo was key as well."

News and Notes
> Camaratta is now 12-4 on the season, including going 10-3 at No. 6 singles. 
> Gamble earned her first singles win in the team's past five matches.
> The Sea Lions have won four of their last five matches against Sonoma State. 

Up Next
With their win the Sea Lions move into the quarterfinals where they will face Sonoma State for the second season in a row. The teams will play at 1 p.m. on Thursday with a berth to the semifinals on the line.

Results
Box score

Match Notes:
Point Loma 11-6
Hawaii Hilo 5-11
Order of finish: Doubles (1,2); Singles (5,6,3)