The Virginia Union University women's tennis team wrapped up the 2024 season by hosting Bluefield State University for a double-header on Tuesday, April 16, and then traveled to Bowie, Md., to take on Bowie State University on Saturday, April 20.

The Bluefield State double-header was also senior day for the Lady Panthers, who saluted seniors Jade Sawyer, Rudell Octave and Giselle Harris.

Unfortunately, the Big Blue defeated VUU 5-2 and 5-2 in the match.

"Our seniors who were celebrated are the number one player and team Captain from Columbia, Md., Jade Sawyer as she graduates with a degree in Psychology," said VUU Head Tennis Coach Gig Carter-Thurston.  "Co-captain Rudell Octave, our number two player, comes from the beautiful island of St. Lucia and her major is Biology.  Giselle  Harris, our number 4 player, comes from Richmond, Va., and she is the coach's daughter.  She will be graduating with a degree in Entrepreneur Management."

Bowie State defeated the Lady Panthers in the season finale by the score of 5-1.

"The Virginia Union tennis team was hosted by the Bowie State Bulldogs on Saturday April 20, where we lost 5-1," said Carter-Thurston.  Our Lady Panthers did their best and I am very proud of their efforts.  We will be looking forward to a new season and will definitely look forward to winning in the upcoming season."