BEAUMONT – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Vaqueros women's tennis team has been waiting three weeks to get back in a dual match, and they're looking to return with a big win over former conference foe Lamar on Sunday at 1 p.m. at the Beaumont Municipal Tennis Center. 
 
UTRGV (0-2) is 10-21 against Lamar (1-4) but is coming in confident after claiming a tight 4-3 win over the Cardinals in last season's home finale. The Vaqueros leaned on their high-energy, rowdy disposition to grind out that win, and they'll look to do so again on Sunday. 
 
"From the last time we played them, we know the key is to have a lot of energy, always be cheering, screaming and getting a little annoying to them," sophomore Marjorie Souza said. "We've been working on team chemistry and, doubles-wise, getting more comfortable with new partners." 

Added junior Lea Karren: "We know Lamar is a very gritty team and that every point is going to matter, every point is going to matter. We have to get all the energy together to be able to get that win. It's going to be a tough one. We're going to have to be ready from the first point of doubles, be in their face and get the doubles point because that will be the key." 
 
Last time out, the Vaqueros faced two tough opponents in (RV) Baylor and Houston. Though they didn't come away with the win, they learned good lessons from those matches. UTRGV has been focusing on building team chemistry, particularly with some new doubles teams, over the last few weeks and on improving their fitness to endure long matches. 
 
UTRGV head coach West Nott is pleased with how the team is coming together and the work they've been putting in. He believes they're in a good place as the season prepares to pick up, and the Vaqueros are hopeful they'll secure their first win of the season on Sunday. 
 
"We learned we're a pretty good team from those matches. We got good experience against the big dogs, and now we get to play against other mid-major teams," Robinson said. "We beat Lamar last year in a gritty match 4-3 and I think we're well prepared to go into this match after experiencing the first two matches. 
 
"We've been doing a lot of situational play in doubles and getting the team chemistry all on the same page. We've been doing a lot of team related activities, drilling, building confidence, rooting each other on in practice and not getting down on ourselves," he added. "We're in a pretty confident place right now so I'm excited to see what they do. We've been doing a consistent job in practice and I have no doubt they're going to do great against Lamar." 

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