Triumphant Moment for Welker and Crowder at Blue Gray Classic

Triumphant Moment for Welker and Crowder at Blue Gray Classic

tennis Sep 15, 2025

A Sparkling Start to the Fall Season

It’s not every day that athletes get to close their season’s opening tournament with a championship win. But for Emily Welker and Riley Crowder from Ole Miss, this dream turned into thrilling reality at the Blue Gray Classic in Montgomery, Alabama. Facing some of the fiercest competitors, they snatched the Gray Draw Championship, making a statement for the Rebels as they launch into the fall tennis season.

Epic Battles on the Court

In a test of grit and finesse, the day began with Welker and Crowder meeting Georgia Tech’s Taly Licht and Olivia Carneiro in a riveting doubles match that unfortunately slipped away at 6-8. The pairings in singles, however, made way for an Ole Miss comeback. No. 67 Welker conquered Licht with scores of 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, showcasing her tenacity. Crowder mirrored her teammate’s triumph, taking down Carneiro with a steady 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 win. This dynamic duo’s tenacity set them up for the crowning moment.

The Final Showdown

The crowning moment for Welker and Crowder came when they faced Iowa State’s formidable pair in the decisive 10-point doubles tiebreak. High stakes and higher energy filled the court, but their challenge ended with a hard-fought 2-10. Despite their loss in the overall tournament title tiebreaker, their journey to the Gray Draw Championship remains a fiery chapter in their careers.

Contributions from the Team

As the Blue Gray Classic wrapped up, other team players like Andrea Nova and Ichino Horikawa of Ole Miss showcased their potential in the Blue Draw. Despite falling to Auburn’s powerful duo, their involvement is a heartening reminder of the depth and spirit prevailing in the team.

On to New Victories

This sparkling start is just a harbinger of what’s to come. As Ole Miss prepares for the Milwaukee Tennis Classic later this month, fans and followers are poised for more exhilarating victories. According to Ole Miss Athletics, the excitement for the upcoming matches is palpable, and the team is keen to channel this momentum into new triumphs. Be sure to keep up with the Rebels as they continue their campaign in Wisconsin, ready to make more headlines and etch memorable moments in tennis history.

Rebels Rally Forward

Stay tuned as the Rebel women’s tennis team spheres through their fall season, defying odds and making every match count. Follow them on their social media channels to catch all the action live and cheer on the stars of the courts.

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