That bright spot was junior Karlee Prahl, a former Litchfield native who recently moved to New Ulm and will be attending Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School.

Prahl cruised past Ally Mersman at No. 1 singles with a 6-1, 6-1 win.

Prahl said she’s enjoying her new team so far and head coach Pete Engeldinger.

“I really love the girls,” Prahl said. “And coach is really nice, too. It’s a very positive environment. … He definitely cares about the players.”

Prahl also said Engeldinger has been pushing more for improvement and getting the most out of every player on the team in favor of winning every match they play. Prahl said she has appreciated Engeldinger’s support.

In her matchup with Mersman, Prahl said remaining consistent was key to her big win.

“I think the biggest thing is just staying consistent,” she said. “Getting the ball back whenever I can and trying to capitalize on my opponent’s weaknesses.”

New Ulm’s No. 3 singles player Joci Pettersen also had some strong moments Monday, making her opponent Kelsey Jaeger work for a 6-4, 6-4 win.

While Engeldinger said the team would take some lumps in a tough Big South Conference and section this season, he’s looking to keep the team growing and learning as time goes on.

At No. 2 singles, Macy Sohre defeated Lydia King 6-0, 6-1, while Tabitha Barkosky topped Carmen Schotzko 6-1, 6-3 at No. 4 singles.

At No. 1 doubles, Madison Ward and Ellie Braaten shut down Peyton Kveno and Lana Braun 6-0, 6-0, while Claire Langworthy and Brooke Reuter defeated Lexi Schneider and Aubrey Demarais 6-0, 6-1 at No. 2 doubles. At No. 3 doubles, Norah Davis and Kate Davis defeated Hannah Davey and Morgan Hauenstein 6-3, 6-1.

While there are a share of new faces on team this year for the Eagles, Prahl is looking forward to getting a look at new competition.

“I don’t really know any of the teams that I play, so [I want to] just have respect for every team that I play and try and show up and play my game,” she said.

The Eagles are scheduled to host Worthington on Thursday.