Ball State University Athletics
Ball State University
Indiana University
Women’s Tennis Delivers Strong Showings at Hoosier Classic
October 04, 2026 | Women's Tennis
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Facing a heavily stacked field of Power Four opponents, the Ball State women's tennis team showcased its grit and competitive spirit at the 2026 Hoosier Classic, hosted by Indiana University this past weekend.
The high-caliber, three-day tournament began Friday, October 2, and concluded Sunday afternoon at the IU Tennis Center. The Cardinals went head-to-head with elite competition from host Indiana, Iowa, Kansas State, Louisville, Miami (OH), Purdue, and Notre Dame.
Despite continuing to navigate a limited roster due to lingering injuries, Ball State battled fiercely throughout the weekend, repeatedly pushing top-tier opponents into grueling three-set matches.
The Cardinals' singles play was anchored by a pair of spectacular, three-set triumphs over Power Four adversaries. Priyanka Rana outlasted Big Ten foe Sally Xu of Iowa in a thrilling marathon, securing a 6-1, 4-6, 7-5 victory. Anya Tkachyk mirrored that resilient performance on the adjacent courts, knocking off Louisville's Anshika Jamaal 6-3, 2-6, 6-2 to claim a marquee win over the ACC powerhouse.
Ball State also found strong rhythm in doubles action. The dynamic duo of Rana and veteran Sydney Hrehor teamed up for a clinical 6-4 victory over Iowa's Ida Clement and Xu. Meanwhile, the tandem of Isabel Tanjuatco and Noa Kosman put together a stellar weekend of their own. The duo first upset Notre Dame's Skye Madatali and Esther Vyrlan, 6-4, before carrying that momentum into a decisive 6-4 victory over Mid-American Conference rivals Maria Comer and Evelyn Rosner of Miami.
"Our players showed incredible toughness this weekend," fourth-year head coach Sachin Kirtane said. "Even with a shortened lineup, we stepped onto the courts ready to compete with some of the best programs in the region. Taking these Power Four teams to the wire and coming away with significant wins in both singles and doubles is a testament to the hard work and belief this group has. We are finding our stride at the right time."
The Ball State women's tennis team will enjoy a well-deserved weekend of rest before returning to action Oct. 23–25 at the MAC Individuals in Kalamazoo, Michigan
