Contact: Nicholas Osterloo, Assistant Sports Information Director, 630-637-5324
Oct. 22, 2024 - Three members of the North Central College women's tennis team have been recognized by the College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin with all-conference accolades, highlighted by
Abigail Penados earning her second straight CCIW Player of the Year honor and
Priya Harris winning the First Year Student-Athlete of the Year award.
Kensington Payne was named to the All-CCIW Second Team.
Penados posted an 8-0 record in both No. 1 singles and doubles action for the third straight year, keeping her undefeated career record against CCIW competition intact. This season, Penados became the sixth player in program history to join the 100-win club with her career record of 111-24.
Payne, a two-time Second Team All-CCIW selection, played No. 2 singles for North Central, earning a 7-1 record in league play. In doubles action, Payne teamed up with Penados for an 8-0 mark against conference competition. For her career, Payne is 30-2 in both singles and doubles in CCIW play.
During conference play, Harris competed at No. 2 doubles and No. 3 singles this season. She posted a perfect 8-0 record in singles play with a 4-3 doubles record in CCIW action.
The CCIW also announced the nine winners of its RESPECT Award for the season. RESPECT Award recipients have distinguished themselves as an integral member of the team, their institution and community by upholding the values of Responsibility, Enthusiasm, Service, Pride, Excellence, Collaboration and Trust. The RESPECT Award recognizes the intangible traits a student-athlete possesses that exemplify great character and encourages inclusiveness and a positive culture. North Central's RESPECT Award honoree is Kate Herlihy.
The Cardinals earned a share of their fifth consecutive CCIW Championship with a 7-1 record on the year. North Central won 50 straight CCIW matches, dating back to 2020. After a break for the winter, the Cardinals begin the spring slate against the defending national champions, the University of Chicago. That match will be played at XS Tennis in Chicago on Feb. 22.
Download the free North Central Cardinals app, available for iOS and Android devices, to receive up-to-the-minute news, scores and updates on your favorite North Central teams. Click HERE for more information.
