The Highline College women’s tennis team just concluded a tough three-match stretch on the road, and although the final results weren’t in their favor, their fight and enthusiasm never wavered. From rough starts to tough moments, the Thunderbirds showed great courage, and some players made it clear they are players to watch this season.

It all began on April 6 at The College of Idaho, where Highline faced a strong opponent and fell 6-1. It was a tough start to the trip, but it set the stage for what was to come: a team that refined its game and learned from every match.

On April 9, the Thunderbirds were in Tacoma, Wash., to face the University of Puget Sound. The match ended in a 5-2 loss, but Highline achieved more competitive wins and raised their game to a higher level. Caley Buchan and Zanna Orvald led the attack with a combination of confidence in their shots and composure under pressure. Buchan, in particular, fought tooth and nail in her singles battle, reaching a tie-break and holding on despite the changes of pace.

But the real story came on April 13, when Highline faced Bellevue College on equal terms and nearly pulled off a huge road victory. The match ended 5-4 in favor of Bellevue, but it was a tightly contested encounter from start to finish. Sophie Crosby gave it her all in the top singles spot, sweeping a grueling three-setter that came down to the wire. After splitting sets, Crosby came up just short in a 10-8 super tie-break, but her drive and focus were unmatched.

Adriana Barbee and Jeslyn Berry brought energy and dominance to their doubles match, crushing their Bellevue opponents 8-2 and setting the tone from the start. Zanna Orvald also shone, dominating her singles match in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, giving Highline a key point at the crucial moment.

With three matches under their belt, the Thunderbirds return home with a more united and resilient team. Their record doesn’t tell the whole story: a history of close matches, players who rise to the occasion, and a team that finds its identity with every change.

Sure, the road trip ends with three losses on paper. But the numbers are not the only thing that matters. This team is learning, growing, and getting stronger with each game. And with home games ahead, the Thunderbirds return with experience, momentum, and a whole lot of passion.