MOUNT BERRY, Ga. – Old Dominion University Women’s Tennis player Sofia Johnson defeated Gracie Epps of Oklahoma State in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, on Sunday afternoon to win the ITA Conference Masters Championships and secure her spot in the NCAA Singles Tournament.
“A fantastic accomplishment for Sofia and our program,” ODU Women’s Tennis Head Coach Dominic Manilla said. “Since Sofia first set foot on the campus of Old Dominion, she has represented us at the highest level both athletically and as a citizen of our campus community. Witnessing such a kind person be successful is inspirational to all of us. I couldn’t be happier for her, her development and what is in store for her future. I look forward to the NCAA singles tournament next week in Waco, Texas.”
Johnson began the tournament with a 6-1, 6-1 win over Anna Neyestani of Fairfield before dispatching Shyla Aggarwal of Yale, 6-1, 6-3 to clinch her spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Johnson moved onto the finals when California’s Katja Wiersholm withdrew before topping Epps in the finals. Johnson did not drop a set during the tournament.
“I’m happy to win this for myself and my team. I’ve cherished my time at ODU and I’m so happy to have had a strong start to my senior year,” Johnson said. “It’s great to have earned confidence through this tournament and I’m excited to carry it to the NCAA’s and represent ODU.”
The NCAA Tournament will begin on November 19 in Waco, Texas, on the campus of Baylor.