Pendraks reach semis in SMSU Relays

In the unique tournament format of the Southwest Missouri State University Tennis Relays, the Nevada High School doubles team of Gina and Lisa Pendrak advanced to the semifinal round. Approximately 29 high schools from across the state of Missouri, in a mix of classes ranging from big to small schools, participate in the annual event. Each school may field two singles players and a doubles team in the single-elimination tournament. The Pendraks defeated the Carthage duo of Alex Ferrell and Kendra Smith in the first round, 8-2. Moving to the "sweet sixteen" round, the next draw was the Thomas Jefferson team of Caitlin Barnett and Mari Prigmore. The Pendraks, a state tournament representative for the Tigers in 2002, again won by an 8-2 score. In the next round, the quarterfinals, the Pendraks took a 4-1 lead, then let the Springfield Catholic team of Laura Bult and Whitney Gallagher creep back in it at 7-6. But a dominating service game from Gina, four straight points including two aces, clinched the 8-6 win. "You expect your seniors to step up and play well in a big-time tournament," said Nevada coach Dennis Pendrak, "and she did." In the semifinal round, the Pendraks bowed, 2-8, to old nemeses, Joplin's Hannah Lazenby and Brittany Maples. Teams from Bolivar, Mo., and Springfield Glendale comprised the other semifinal. In singles action, Nevada's Anne Conner lost to Chelsea Walker of Jackson, Mo., 2-8. Jessica Ferree was defeated by Kristin McFarland of Neosho, Mo., also 2-8. The Lady Tigers resume full team play today at Webb City.