NEWARK, NJ – The NJIT women's tennis team earned its first victory of the 2026 season on Saturday afternoon, defeating visiting Seton Hall, 5-2, in the Highlanders' home opener at the Naimoli Family Athletic and Recreational Facility.

NJIT set the tone early by claiming the crucial doubles point and followed with strong performances across the top of the singles lineup and added a point at the sixth spot to secure the win. 

The victory marks a positive start to a home-heavy opening stretch of the spring season for NJIT.

The Highlanders jumped out in front during doubles play, earning wins at the No. 1 and No. 2 positions. At first doubles, Irene Cocero and Laura Wipfli battled to a 6-4 victory, while the duo of Feyza Aydin and Paula Menendez Alvarez delivered a convincing 6-2 win at second doubles to clinch the doubles point for NJIT.

NJIT carried that momentum into singles competition, winning three of the first three singles matches to reach four team points. 

At No. 1 singles, Wipfli put together a dominant performance, rolling to a 6-0, 6-3 straight-set victory over Kira Farrakhova.

Menendez Alvarez followed with a strong showing at second singles, earning a 6-4, 6-1 win against Jaden Davidson. 

Cocero edged Anastasia Sereda in a competitive match, 6-4, 7-6 at third singles and Diana Fernandes went the distance at the sixth spot, coming out on top 6-4, 4-6, 10-7, over Rachel Benoualid.

Seton Hall recorded its two points with wins at the fourth and fifth singles positions, but the Pirates were unable to close the gap as NJIT secured the 5-2 decision.

NEXT UP
NJIT will continue its five-match homestand to open the spring season, welcoming Rutgers on Friday, January 30, with first serve scheduled for 11 a.m.

STAY CONNECTED
Follow NJIT Women's Tennis on Instagram (@NJITWTennis) and like NJIT Women's Tennis on Facebook for the latest news, updates, and scores.