Wheaton, Ill. -- Three weeks after its last victory in Florida, the Wheaton women's tennis team returned home for the first time since Feb. 22 to take on UW-Eau Claire from the WIAC. Saturday's contest served as the Thunder's Senior Day occasion, and before the match got underway, Lydia Adams and Alexandra Wachs were recognized for their contributions to the program over the last four years. The Blugolds were able to secure the victory, 4-3, this afternoon in only their second all-time meeting against the Thunder. With the result, Wheaton fell to 11-5 overall while Eau Claire improved to 10-8 on the season.
 
Wheaton secured an early 2-1 advantage in doubles play to claim the team point heading into the singles section with a 7-5 win by Madeline Gentry and Lydia Adams in #1 doubles, while Ella Malone and Tatum Thurstone picked up a 6-4 victory in #2 doubles. For the young freshman/sophomore duo, the match marked their tenth doubles win together this season.
 
However, Eau Claire controlled the singles portion, winning the section 4-2 to eventually claim the match win on the day. One of Wheaton's two wins in singles came from Malone, who prevailed 7-5, 2-6 (10-6) in #4 singles, while her doubles partner Thurstone won 6-4, 7-5 at #5 singles.
 
The Thunder will remain at home for their second of four-consecutive home matches as they take on Coe College this Friday.