Notre Dame wins C2D1 title in action-packed day

In what was an eventful and hectic day, the Notre Dame Bulldogs prevailed with a 5-0 win and a district championship over St. Pius X on Wednesday at Freedom Fitness in Jackson.

Yes, you read that right. At Freedom Fitness in Jackson.

The day began with both clubs trying to beat the rain by getting an early start at Notre Dame Regional High School.

The rain quickly moved in however, and the two schools were forced to move the match. in order to complete it.

“The girls had to rely on their training because it can be an extremely stressful situation,” Bulldogs coach Pershard Owens said. “They played amazing even though it was stressful. They came through at the end and made all the training we do worth it.”

Despite earning a sweep, there were multiple opportunities where the door was open for the Lancers to take control.

With the Bulldogs leading 2-0 and the final doubles team playing, the Lancers rallied forcing the Bulldogs to earn a crucial point.

Then, as the singles began, Vita Galati had full control before being forced into a tiebreaker.

“We’ve just trained so hard and I’ve told them to be mentally tough,” Owens said. “We just want to play point-by-point and fight and battle back and that’s what we did today. There were a couple times where it could have went either way and my girls just kept fighting.”

In a full circle moment, the district championship was clinched by Suna Mungee.

A year ago, Mungee’s match was the decider in a district championship loss. But, this year, Mungee got her redemption and helped bring the Bulldogs another district title.

“I’m so happy for her,” Owens said. “She got the final point to win us the match and the district.”

One of the variables in playing at a different location was the fact only two courts were available.

This put more eyes on the players in action at the time.

“I always tell my girls the famous Billie Jean King quote that pressure is a privilege,” Owens said. “No matter how small or big the venue is, I tell them that if you have pressure, it’s a privilege. They’re starting to understand that and I think today showed them that they can step up under pressure and get the job done.”

Next up for the Bulldogs is the sectional round where they will host Webster Groves at 4 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 9, at Notre Dame Regional High School.

“They’re extremely excited and I’m excited for them,” Owens said. “They’ve worked hard and put blood, sweat and tears into this season.”