Northfield, Minn. – May 2, 2025 – In a heart-pounding MIAC Semifinal showdown, the No. 41 Bethel Royals (14-5) came up just short against No. 30 Carleton (15-3), falling 4-1 at the Pat Lamb Tennis Courts in a match that was closer than the final score suggests.
The Royals showed early promise in doubles, with
Julia Baber and
Emma Thole securing a strong 6-3 win at No. 2 doubles. However, Carleton edged Bethel at No. 1 and No. 3 to take a 2-1 lead into singles.
In singles play, Bethel's
Michaella Sullivan turned in a stellar performance at No. 2, winning 7-5, 6-1 to even the match.
Lauryn Douglas pushed nationally ranked Amelia Asfaw to the limit at the No. 1 spot, ultimately falling in three tightly contested sets, 6-1, 2-6, 3-6. The Knights sealed the win with victories at No. 4 and No. 5 singles, while matches at No. 3 and No. 6 remained unfinished but highly competitive.
Following the emotional finish, Head Coach
Drew Fernelius reflected on both the heartbreak and pride that came with the performance:
"Absolutely crushing defeat. No other way to put it, we are heartbroken that we were so close to the Championship, but at the same time there are NO words to articulate how proud I am of our team for the year we've had and especially today! Every single match was a battle and every one of our ladies gave it everything they had and then some for each other to the very last point."
The loss ends a remarkable season for the Royals, who finish 14-6 overall and earned a top-50 national ranking—an indication of the program's continued rise and resilience.
