The Gladiators' women, led by top returner Stephanie Huang, ranked in the top 10 in the state, swept Modesto and CCSF by 9-0 scores after falling on the road against Division 3 UC Santa Cruz 8-1. The Gladiators boast three returners, also including Sophie Moeckelmann (Pioneer HS) and Gurwant Khabra (Tennyson HS).
First-year players include Claire Keeshan (San Ramon Valley), Elizabeth Covarrubias (James Logan), Lisa Bargeman (Carondelet), Kathy Donofrio (Bishop O'Dowd), Kathleen Berriatua (Diamond HS), and Elen Stoops (South Pasadena).
In the loss to Santa Cruz, Huang had an impressive win at No. 1 singles by 6-3, 6-3 scores. Huang and Moeckelmann dropped a triebreaker at No. 1 doubles.
Against Modesto, Moeckelmann and Keeshan both prevailed in three sets.