GSAC TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS
And Just Like That
PHOENIX, AZ – The Stanton University women's tennis team made history this week, capturing the GSAC Tournament title in a dominant showing. Entering as the second seed, the Lady Elks opened the tournament by sweeping Arizona Christian 4-0, setting up a high-stakes championship showdown against top-seeded Lewis-Clark State.
In the final, Stanton proved they belonged at the top by securing another 4-0 sweep to take the crown. The Lady Elks took an early lead in doubles as Cheyenne Houkes and Paula Rodriguez Velayos won 6-2 at the top spot, while Romy Pols and Emilse Ruiz secured the point with a 6-1 victory at #2.
Singles play was equally clinical. Emilse Ruiz earned a quick 6-3, 6-1 win at the #1 position, followed by Paula Rodriguez Velayos mirroring that score with a 6-3, 6-1 victory at #3. The championship was officially clinched at #4 singles, where Polina Buenina battled to a 7-5, 6-3 win.
This victory is a landmark achievement for Stanton Athletics. In its second year of existence and its very first year in the GSAC, the tennis program—the only Stanton sport currently competing in the conference—has transformed from untested underdogs into formidable champions. The small university in Anaheim has now firmly established itself as a powerhouse to be watched by teams across California, Arizona, and Idaho.
Congratulations to the players and coaches for their incredible grit, and a special thank you to the families for their unwavering commitment and support throughout this historic season.