March 8, 2007

Spartanburg, S.C. - The Southern Conference recently announced that Furman's Laura Gioia was named the Women's Tennis Player of the Week based on her accomplishments so far this season.

Gioia has compiled an 8-1 record to start the spring at No. 1 singles. The sophomore's only loss came to South Carolina's Gira Schofield in three sets. Gioia, the reigning SoCon Freshman of the Year, has been victorious against five players from teams ranked in the top 60, including a win over then-No. 72 Carol Salge of Clemson. A native of Tampa, Fla., Gioia won matches against Alabama, Iowa, SMU and UNLV as well. She also competes at number one doubles and has put together a 6-3 mark with teammate Natas Manojlovic.

The Lady Paladins go head-to-head with Elon on Saturday, March 10 at 1 p.m.