Oct. 5, 2008

FRESNO, Calif. - The No. 8 doubles team of Renata Kucerkova and Anastasia Petukhova began the day with the opportunity to bring home a championship from one of the most prestigious collegiate tournaments in the nation.

The `Dogs bid for the ITA All-American doubles title was stopped short by No. 30 Falconi/McDowell of Georgia Tech.

"We always play well at this tournament," head coach Simon Thibodeau said. "We learned a lot this weekend, and we'll be able build on what we did."

Kucerkova/Petukhova jumped on top first, winning the first set in a tiebreaker 7-6(2). However the duo from Fresno State was unable to hold on. Falconi/McDowell went on to force a third set, winning the second set 6-3. In the third and final set the team from Georgia Tech claimed the title 6-7(2), 6-3, 6-4.

"Both Renata and Anastasia will have more chances," said Thibodeau. "They will be able to use this experience to help them throughout the season."

Next up for the `Dogs is the Northwest Regional Championships beginning Oct. 17 in Palo Alto, Calif.

Complete ITA All-American doubles bracket

"Join the State - Fresno State!"- The Bulldogs will continue the Fall season at the Northwest Regional Championships beginning Oct. 17.