RALEIGH, N.C. – The Meredith College Avenging Angels opened the spring portion of their season Friday afternoon against the Piedmont University Lions. Originally scheduled to be played at Meredith, inclement weather forced the match to a neutral indoor facility, shifting the setting but not the opportunity for growth. Facing a seasoned Piedmont squad that entered the day 6-1 on the year, Meredith's young roster gained valuable early-season experience in its first spring competition.
With just two returning players in Cate Reilly and Zoe Jones, the Avenging Angels showcased determination and resilience against a deep and experienced Lions lineup.
Match Highlights
Piedmont claimed the doubles point, sweeping all three courts to take an early 1-0 advantage. Meredith pairs Cate Reilly and Molly Zuburg at No. 1, Coley Dyer and Jayla Kearney at No. 2, and Zoe Jones with Maya Kirstein at No. 3 battled throughout, using the match as a key learning opportunity against veteran opposition.
In singles play, the Lions' depth and match experience proved decisive. Piedmont secured straight-set victories across all six positions to complete the team win. Despite the scoreline, Meredith's newcomers gained critical match reps in a competitive collegiate environment—an important step for a roster featuring several rookies competing in their first spring dual.
Key Performances
Reilly, one of Meredith's two returners, anchored the lineup at No. 1 singles while also competing at the top doubles position. Jones added leadership at No. 3 singles and No. 3 doubles, continuing to set the tone for the Avenging Angels' developing squad.
Rookies Dyer, Kearney, Zuburg, and Kirstein each saw action in both doubles and singles, gaining firsthand experience against a Lions program that brought depth and confidence into the contest. The match served as a benchmark moment for the Angels as they continue to build chemistry and adjust to collegiate competition this spring.
What's Next
Meredith returns to action on Wednesday, March 4, traveling to face Randolph College in Lynchburg, Virginia. First serve is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. as the Avenging Angels look to build on the lessons learned in their spring opener and continue their growth throughout the season.
