11-Nov-2009
Fall Signing Week '09: Kosakowski Decides
The pull of a close-knit family and a university's athletic and
academic tradition made Daniel Kosakowski's college choice easy. The
native Californian with strong Polish roots will stay in Los Angeles
and don the blue and gold of the UCLA Bruins.
11-Nov-2009
Fall Signing Week '09: Cercone Stays in Home State, Signs with Gators
Back when she was playing zonals and intersectionals for the Florida
section, Alexandra Cercone loved the team atmosphere at those junior
competitions. She treasured the bonds formed by the team t-shirts and
well-rehearsed cheers. And although college tennis may mean bigger
audiences for that team spirit, her decision to sign a National Letter
of Intent to join the University of Florida in 2010 will keep that
Florida pride in full view.
10-Nov-2009
Fall Signing Week '09: Mira to the Commodores
Maria Mira, with her grit, determination, and serve-and-volley game is
heading to Tennessee next fall to wear the black and gold of the
Vanderbilt Commodores. "I chose Vanderbilt based on the following
factors: the small student population, its academic excellence and
topnotch tennis program with a great coaching staff and its beautiful
campus in the heart of Nashville."
9-Nov-2009
Fall Signing Week '09: Hold That Hilsman
Five-star recruit Cal Hilsman will officially don the orange-and-white
jersey at Clemson this coming January, and he can't wait for the day
to come. "It was a no-brainer," he said about his decision to go to
Clemson, less than two hours from his home in Spartanburg, S.C. "It
just felt right. I really think that this is the best environment for
me to grow not only as a tennis player but as a person. It is close
to home and close to heart."
6-Nov-2009
Countdown: Smyth to the 'Cats
Blue Chip Lacey Smyth had numerous suitors vying for her commitment:
Colorado, Pepperdine, San Diego and Washington. Ultimately, her heart
went to Arizona. "I chose Arizona [because of its] supportive
coaching staff, the cohesiveness of the team, and the career
opportunities available at the University," said the #3-ranked
Californian.
3-Nov-2009
Countdown: Dolehide Heads West to UCLA
It's hard to imagine anyone being more excited than Brian Dolehide
when his big sister, Courtney, verbally committed to UCLA. Courtney
Dolehide and her brother visited UCLA together, and that visit made an
impact. "That is when I fell in love with the school," she said.
"It's such a great academic school and it is so sports-oriented.
There is so much spirit around being a Bruin, and I am just really
excited about that part of it."
2-Nov-2009
Countdown: Saba to the Devils
Frederick Saba was 13 when Nick Saviano told him that full-time
dedication to tennis would make him one of the elite players in the
country. At the time, Saba wasn't even an elite player in his native
Florida. Now, Saba is the No. 5 player in TennisRecruiting.net's
class of 2010. He will sign with Duke later this month.
28-Oct-2009
Countdown: Ann Arbor Welcomes Bolender
17-year-old Brooke Bolender already has a number of significant
victories, including wins over Sloane Stephens, Christina McHale, and
Chanelle Van Nguyen. She owns a Gold Ball from a USTA championship,
and she reached the finals in both singles and doubles at the
International Grass Court Championships in June. Next year, Bolender will
be wearing the maize and blue of the University of Michigan.
27-Oct-2009
Countdown: Cheung Calls Irvine Home
One goal of every major college coach is to keep talented local
recruits in their own backyard. For Ryan Cheung, that is literally
almost the case at the University of California, Irvine.
26-Oct-2009
Countdown: Tigers Take Three
Three highly-ranked recruits from Florida, Georgia and Alabama have
given verbal commitments to become members of the Auburn University Tigers
women's tennis team. Jackie Kasler of Gulf Breeze, Fla.; Julia
Courter of Lawrenceville, Ga.; and Emily Newton of Dothan, Ala.; will
all play for head coach Tim Gray in Auburn, Ala.
21-Oct-2009
Countdown: Shane chooses Cavaliers
Justin Shane enjoyed seeing a tall, slender young man named Juan
Martin del Potro make his big breakthrough at the U.S. Open. Shane, a
tall, slender young man from Falls Church, Va., hopes his big
breakthrough will come with the University of Virginia Cavaliers.
20-Oct-2009
Countdown: Millie Nichols Commits to Tennessee
Millie Nichols, a Texas high school singles champion, has decided to
become a Volunteer. The Lake Travis star told the husband-wife
coaching team of Mike and Sonia Hahn-Patrick that she is headed to
Knoxville next fall.
14-Oct-2009
Countdown: Hanna Mar Remains a Devil
Hanna Mar's college mascot will be no different from her high
school's, except for its color: she's trading her Hinsdale Central Red
Devils for Duke University's Blue Devils. "I visited a number of
schools and there was just a feeling I had at Duke," said Mar.
13-Oct-2009
Countdown: Alden Stays Close to Home, Chooses Illinois
University of Illinois Head Coach Brad Dancer didn't look far for his
first Class of 2010 recruit. It was hard for him to miss Brian Alden,
a 6'5" five-star prospect from Inverness, Ill. The Fighting Illini
featured four players from the Prairie State in 2009, so Alden should
feel right at home in Champaign, even if it is a three-hour drive from
his house.
8-Oct-2009
Davis Gains Stature in New York
Top-ranked sophomore Lauren Davis decided to defend her USTA National
Girls 16s title in San Diego this year - in part to return to the
biggest stage in U.S. tennis - Flushing Meadows, New York. Having played
only three ITF junior events in her tennis career, Davis needed the US
Open Junior wild card given to the 16s champion, and once she secured
it, without dropping a set in her seven victories, she was ready for
her second chance in New York.
24-Sep-2009
Capra Considers Options While Enjoying Junior Grand Slam Success
Blue chip senior Beatrice Capra loves to write, keeping a journal of
her experiences as she travels the tennis circuit. This summer, the
class of 2010's third-ranked player reached the final 16 in all three
junior slams, concluding with a quarterfinal appearance at the U.S.
Open. With that kind of success, writer's block isn't likely, and she
provided some of her impressions during a recent interview.
21-Sep-2009
On Serve with Heather Watson
By now, you probably know Heather Watson as the U.S. Open Junior
girls' champion. But how much do you really know about the
17-year-old IMG Bollettieri Tennis Academy student originally from the
tiny island of Guernsey, just south of the United Kingdom?
13-Aug-2009
Lords of the Strings
Joshua Rey talks with the talented trio of junior players in the Lord
family of Bloomfield, Conn. - Matthew (10 years old), Melissa (12),
and Dayna (14).
10-Jul-2009
Texas and Texas A&M Recruiting Classes
When it comes to college tennis in Texas, there are plenty of solid
men's programs within the state. Texas has reached the semifinals in
three of the last four years, including the championship match in
2008, while Baylor won it all in 2004 and lost in the finals in 2005.
Texas A&M is on the rise, reaching the Sweet 16 this season. Rice, TCU
and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi are always in the tournament. This past
recruiting season saw Texas (#3) and Texas A&M (#18) with recruiting
classes in the top-20. How good are these classes?
9-Jul-2009
Will Heads Florida's Way
Blue chip recruit Allie Will had two decisions to make during her
senior year. The 18-year-old from Boca Raton, Fla. was debating both
where and when she would attend college, deciding late last year on
the University of Florida, and early last month that she would not
take a year off, but instead join the Gators this fall.
26-Jun-2009
Charlotte Calhoun to SMU
Rising senior Charlotte Calhoun has made an early verbal commitment
to Southern Methodist University, a private liberal arts college
located in a quiet, tree-lined suburb hemmed in by the sprawling city
of Dallas - and a stone's throw from Calhoun's childhood home. Ali Jones
talks with Calhoun about her decision.
25-Jun-2009
Sarmiento Keeping College Options Open
Raymond Sarmiento probably won't be answering his phone too often next
week, despite the many, many calls he'll undoubtedly receive from
college coaches interested in discussing his plans. The Fontana,
California native, who turns 17 next month, is in Europe the next
several weeks, competing in ITF Men's and Junior Circuit events.
14-May-2009
Fuller Makes Early Commitment to Georgia
Kate Fuller wasn't in a hurry. The 17-year-old high school junior had
planned to take all five of her official recruiting visits this fall.
A recent unofficial visit to nearby Athens, Ga., caused the Suwanee
resident to reconsider that timetable however, and Fuller has verbally
committed to the University of Georgia for the fall of 2010.
1-May-2009
Jarmere Jenkins Chooses Virginia
The Jenkins family is all about tennis - particularly of the college
variety. The oldest Jenkins child, Jackie Jr., played for
Northwestern. Jarmaine played for Clemson. Terrance and Richard are in
college in Atlanta and play the local circuit. Deangelo is on his high
school tennis team. Now the family is preparing for another fall
sendoff - Jarmere has signed a National Letter of Intent with the
Virginia Cavaliers and has the hallowed Grounds of Charlottesville all
abuzz.
10-Apr-2009
Spring Signing Week '09: Hoffpauir in Blue and Gold
Most college-bound tennis players start training, traveling,
preparing, and competing when they are just a few years old. For
18-year-old Stephanie Hoffpauir of Escondido, Calif., who recently
accepted a scholarship to UCLA, tennis was not a part of life until
the ripe old age of 14.
10-Apr-2009
Spring Signing Week '09: Pham Among Broncos
The University of Santa Clara Broncos will be fortunate to have the
services of a spirited young tennis player next August. Thomas Pham
of San Diego, ranked No. 58 on the TennisRecruiting.net national list
(No. 16 in California), has signed a letter of intent to play for the
Santa Clara men's team.
9-Apr-2009
Spring Signing Week '09: Anderson a Quaker
For Mollie Anderson of Melville, NY, the nerve-wracking anticipation
of college recruiting is over. After an agitated couple of months
leading into the early signing period, Mollie was looking at three
choices: Wisconsin, Brown, and Penn. In the end, Anderson chose the
Penn Quakers.
9-Apr-2009
Spring Signing Week '09: Phillips Joins New Mexico's Lobos
Blue chip senior Jadon Phillips knows that life has a way of defying
expectations. Fully expecting to stay in the South, perhaps attending
Georgia Tech, Phillips took a recruiting visit to the University of
New Mexico in January. Despite initial doubts, he is excited to
announce he's heading west to Albuquerque to join coach Alan Dils's
team this fall.
8-Apr-2009
Spring Signing Week '09: Bernstein Rides the Green Wave
In 2005 the world looked on in horror as the floodwaters and winds of
Hurricane Katrina swept through the historic city of New Orleans. The
devastation is still evident four years later, but so is a renewed
spirit of resurrection. Adam Bernstein, Florida five-star standout,
wants to be part of that rebuilding in his own way. He signed a
National Letter of Intent to play for Tulane University.
8-Apr-2009
Spring Signing Week '09: Bartnik In Like a Lion
Like many highly-ranked tennis players, Nicole Bartnik has traveled
extensively throughout the world. The people she's met, the countries
she's visited and the memories she holds dear have helped shape her
college choice. Bartnik has chosen to get a bite out of the Big
Apple, the city that never sleeps - she recently committed to
Columbia University.
7-Apr-2009
Spring Signing Week '09: Welnetz a Nittany Lion
Bryan Welnetz has become somewhat of a legend in South Texas' tennis
landscape. As a junior in high school in 2008, he won the 5A state
singles championships. A 5-Star recruit who is ranked #2 in the Texas
18s, Welnetz signed a National Letter of Intent last fall to wear the
Nittany Lions' blue and white in 2009-10.
6-Apr-2009
Spring Signing Week '09: Doerfler Knight
Five-star recruit Jenna Doerfler is methodical, orderly and organized.
When it came to the college recruiting process, she kept a list of
questions for college coaches. After each session, she would write
down their answers and her thoughts. She learned a lot about herself
in the process - including that there is no place like home: Jenna
will stay in-state and, wear the black and gold of Central Florida
like her parents.
3-Apr-2009
Countdown: Two-Sport Star Lewis Selects Tigers and Tennis
While most high school tennis players are content with being the best
in their state, five-star recruit Andrea Lewis has achieved that
distinction in two separate sports. After contemplating whether to
pursue tennis or cross-country in college, Andrea Lewis, a senior from
Tulsa, Okla., signed a national letter of intent to play tennis for the
University of Missouri.
2-Apr-2009
Countdown: Nguyen - Blue Chip to Big Blue
Parents of junior players often call and ask for advice about the
recruiting process; the answer is usually the same. Keep your options
open, do not limit yourself early on, and gather as much information
as you can. For Mimi Nguyen, opening herself up to
options outside of her initial comfort zone helped her find the right
place to attend school next fall. Today the Blue Chip athlete
discusses her commitment to the University of Michigan.
1-Apr-2009
Countdown: The Tide Carries Chadwell
Ian Chadwell of Franklin, Tenn., is fired up about using the phrase
"Roll Tide." And the 5-foot-11, 178-pound right-hander has every right
to be fired up, because he has signed a letter of intent to play for
the Alabama Crimson Tide.
31-Mar-2009
Countdown: Irving Bears Down at Arizona
Before Kelly Irving can answer her phone, "Bear Down Arizona" beckons
the caller to leave a message. Bear Down, of course, is the fight song
for the University of Arizona in Tucson. The Knoxville product chose
the Wildcats over Auburn and William & Mary
23-Mar-2009
Countdown: Lampa in the Eye of the Red Storm
Five-star recruit Michael Lampa (Ocean, N.J.) has grit, determination,
and an endless quest for excellence. Those attributes have swept him
up in the eye of the Storm - the Red Storm, that is, of St. John's
University.
20-Mar-2009
Countdown: Lee Signs with the Mustangs
Alexa Lee, a 5-Star recruit from Bermuda Dunes, Calif., knows exactly
where she will attend school starting in August. Alexa, who turned 18
last week, has signed an early letter of intent with the California
Polytechnic State University - commonly known as Cal Poly - located in
San Luis Obispo.
19-Mar-2009
Countdown: Collins to the Terps
John Collins, a left-hander from Bowie, Md., is one of three in-state
players who are scheduled to arrive at Maryland in the fall. Collins
chose Maryland over Atlantic Coast Conference rival North Carolina
State and Big Ten member Penn State.
26-Feb-2009
Nine Questions with Julia Boserup
Seventeen-year-old Julia Boserup played only two ITF tournaments in
2008, the U.S. Open and the Dunlop Orange Bowl. At Key Biscayne, the
5-foot-11 right-hander demonstrated her game's considerable potential
by overcoming a strong field to capture the title. I
spoke with her at length after her Orange Bowl win, and she reflected
on her Fed Cup experience a few months later via email.
9-Feb-2009
Leonard Goes Green
Next summer, Sarah Leonard will make the trip from her home in
Norwalk, Conn. to the Upper Valley in New Hampshire. But Leonard,
the top-ranked player in the state of Connecticut and a 5-Star
recruit, is not going sightseeing. She is going to become a member of
the Big Green at Dartmouth College in Hanover.
29-Jan-2009
Top Prospect: Rhyne Williams
Rhyne Williams' tennis compass has always pointed in the direction of
the University of Tennessee. But as the 17-year-old senior turns his
attention to the collegiate phase of his tennis career, Tennessee is
currently one of five options he is considering, along with Illinois,
Texas A and M, Duke and Vanderbilt.
16-Jan-2009
Smith Chooses the Anteaters
Location, location, location. This tireless real estate axiom is also
very relevant during the college search and for many prospective
students is one of the determining factors. Kristina Smith, a 5-star
senior from Laguna Niguel, CA, has decided to play her college tennis
at UC Irvine, in large part due to its proximity to home.
15-Jan-2009
Britton Bolsters Ole Miss for Dual Season
The University of Mississippi is currently ranked No. 9 in the country and
has the nation's top-ranked doubles team in Jonas Berg and Bram ten
Berge. But the Rebels bolstered their roster considerably for the 2009
season when blue chip recruit Devin Britton received the necessary
NCAA clearances to join the team for the spring semester.
9-Jan-2009
Blue Chip Burdette Decides
In 2008, Blue Chip athlete Mallory Burdette racked up thousands in
frequent-flier miles playing her ITF schedule. Enjoying travel,
competition and camaraderie among the players, Mallory seriously
thought about going on the professional circuit. Despite the her
success and the lure of the pro circuit, she finally decided that
college was the best way to go.
15-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Deacon Talbert
Kathryn Talbert of Mooresville, N.C., will soon become a Demon Deacon.
Ranked No. 25 by TennisRecruiting.net, Talbert will make a short
60-mile journey and play for Wake Forest University at Winston-Salem,
N.C.
15-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Sundling to Fight On at USC
J.T. Sundling was in the position that tons of people would love to be
in. The Thousand Oaks, Calif. blue-chipper was one of the most heavily
recruited high school seniors and had all the big boys coming after
him. Ultimately the University of Southern California was able to
convince Sundling to stay close to home, as he has decided to be a
Trojan.
14-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Isip Catches the Waves
Family, religion, tennis, and a career in sports medicine are four
topics where 5-Star senior Catherine Isip speaks confidently. These
four factors proved to play a major role in Isip's decision to attend
Pepperdine University.
14-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Rigsby a Tiger
For Zachary Rigsby, the road to Clemson University began on a hot
summer day eight years ago. That was the first time the five-star
recruit from Simpsonville, S.C., walked onto the courts at the Hoke
Sloan Tennis Center for a summer camp. He was 10 years old, and it
marked the beginning of a summer tradition. Over time, Rigsby forged
strong bonds with Clemson coaches and players. This week, he will
sign with the Tigers tennis program for Fall 2009.
13-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Chow Looks To Shine at Princeton
Princeton has always been known for its academics, but incoming
freshman Monica Chow hopes she can help make the Tigers known for
their tennis as well. Chow, a native of Miami, FL, has declared her
intent to join the women's tennis team at Princeton in the fall of
2009, under the watchful eye of head coach Kathy Sell.
13-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Powers To Pursue Dreams At Yale
Yale University has always been good to Marc Powers. He has won many
USTA junior tournaments at the courts on Yale's campus. Next year,
when Powers' junior career comes to an end, he will have the chance to
produce more on-campus memories - he will join the Yale Bulldogs in the
fall of 2009.
12-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Lin Chooses Palo Alto
Denis Lin of Thousand Oaks, Calif., wants to combine a collegiate
tennis career with the finest education possible. That being said,
the 17-year-old Lin will sign with Stanford University - becoming
the third Blue Chip to commit to the Cardinal for 2009.
12-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Turvy Joins Big Ten Powerhouse
It's no surprise that blue chip recruit Kate Turvy entertained serious
thoughts of becoming a Buckeye, since her hometown of Dublin, Ohio is
a just a few miles from Columbus. But a trip to Evanston, Ill. last
month made such an impression that Turvy chose Northwestern instead.
12-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Cyclone Jenna
After considering Missouri, Wyoming and Gonzaga, Jenna Langhorst has
committed to Iowa State for one reason: Coach Armando Espinosa. "He
has already impacted the tennis program a lot," says the 4-Star senior.
Ali Jones talked with Langhorst about her decision process.
11-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Wilson Geauxs to LSU
Ebie Wilson will take heat, humidity and hurricanes any day. After
all, she has lived all her life on Alabama's Gulf Coast. In looking
for colleges, she narrowed down her choices to Alabama and LSU, which
are both within easy driving distance from her home in Mobile. Her
sister is a sophomore at Alabama and while that would have been
convenient for the family for Ebie to join her, Ebie chose LSU
instead.
10-Nov-2008
Fall Signing Week '08: Dunkle to Samford
Coach Kemper Baker and the Samford Bulldogs kicked off their
recruiting season by crossing state lines into Georgia for 4-Star
recruit Zachary Dunkle of Atlanta. Dunkle will join a Samford squad
that won a conference title in its final year in the Ohio Valley
Conference - and one now hoping to make noise in the Southern
Conference.
7-Nov-2008
Countdown: Badgering Berner
Hannah Berner disappeared from the USTA junior scene as a sophomore in
high school. Her decision to leave New York and head down to the
Adams Flynn International Tennis Academy in Pembroke Pines, FL, was
one she believed would enhance her tennis game physically and
mentally. After spending two years at the tennis-intensive academy,
the focused teen returned to her home in Brooklyn to get back on the
college track and gain the recognition her new game deserved.
6-Nov-2008
Countdown: Evan King Goes Blue
Evan King can check off "learn school fight song" from his Things To
Do Before Heading To College list. His father taught him the
University of Michigan's famous fight song "Hail to the Victors" back
when King was many years away from being a much-pursued blue chip
recruit. This week, King made a verbal commitment to Bruce Berque's
Wolverine squad.
4-Nov-2008
Countdown: Cecil Picks the Buckeyes
Kara Cecil of Plant City, Fla., is primed and ready to become an Ohio
State Buckeye next season. And Cecil, ranked No. 62 in girls 18s
nationally, couldn't be more ecstatic and proud about signing her
letter of intent. Cecil considered numerous schools, including
Missouri, Brown and Yale. But The Ohio State won the prize.
3-Nov-2008
Countdown: Sam Wells to Vanderbilt
Sam Wells couldn't help but notice the man in the Vanderbilt shirt who
was watching his match against Charlie Jones at the 2008 National Clay
Court Championships. It was Vanderbilt Coach Ian Duvenhage who was
actually watching Sam's opponent, a new Vanderbilt recruit. A few
months later, Coach Duvenhage offered Sam a spot on the Vanderbilt
team.
31-Oct-2008
Countdown: Chris Cha to Michigan
Chris Cha has always enjoyed the big stage in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
After his junior year, he received offers from Stanford, Notre Dame,
Ohio State and Princeton. In the end, the 5-Star senior chose to
go to Ann Arbor, not too far from where his favorite Kalamazoo
takes place.
29-Oct-2008
Countdown: Kandath Casts Vote for Cardinal
Blue Chip Matt Kandath knew it wouldn't be easy. After official
recruiting visits to the University of Virginia, Duke, Princeton and
Stanford this fall, the Gansevoort, New York senior still had not made
a choice. But last week, he knew the time had come.
28-Oct-2008
Countdown: Hook 'Em Whitehead
Daniel Whitehead of Sugar Land, Texas, will soon become a University
of Texas Longhorn. The 17-year-old Whitehead, who turns 18 next
month, will sign a letter of intent with the Texas team coached by
Michael Center.
27-Oct-2008
Countdown: Boston College's New Crop
With five graduating seniors on Boston College's horizon, there is little doubt
that Head Coach Nigel Bentley has a large gap to fill for the coming
season. Cue three senior 5-Star recruits: Olga Khmylev, Alexandra
Kelleher, and Maria Fuccillo. Those three early commits will attempt
to fill the void as they prepare for Fall 2009.
22-Oct-2008
Countdown: Metzger Chooses the Ducks
Five-star recruit Julia Metzger had her eye on the Pacific-10
Conference when she started hunting for a college tennis home last
year. So when Oregon Coach Paul Reber recently phoned with a
scholarship offer, the 17-year-old from the shores of Lake Erie didn't
have to think long.
21-Oct-2008
Countdown: Noble Looks To Achieve Doubles Success at UNC
While most players dream of lifting a winner's trophy at an ATP
singles event, Ryan Noble hopes his time in college will lead him to
do the same in doubles. After considering Duke and Virginia, Noble
has decided to join the men's tennis team at the University of North
Carolina in the fall of 2009.
15-Oct-2008
Countdown: Kline Chooses the Paladins
Lauren Kline grew up on the tennis court - literally. For as long as
she can remember, Lauren has been hitting tennis balls and toddling
on-court. That's because her parents are both accomplished tennis
players as well as teaching professionals. Needless to say, tennis is
the family business and Lauren is a major investor and stockholder who
is expanding the franchise from Louisville to Greenville, where she
will soon join the Paladins of Furman University.
14-Oct-2008
Countdown: Huskies Pick Up McMorrow
Kyle McMorrow knew what he was looking for. He knew what he wanted
out of a college tennis program and when he saw it he did not need to
see anything else. Today the Blue Chip recruit from Thousand Oaks,
Calif. discusses his commitment to the University of Washington.
10-Oct-2008
Kristie Ahn Rides Summer Momentum In To Fall Season
Representing the United States in the Junior Fed Cup along with Sloane
Stephens and Christina McHale, Kristie Ahn was undefeated in all four
of her matches throughout the week, helping the American team take the
championship. McCarton Ackerman caught up with Ahn to talk about her
recent schedule - as well as the possibility of playing college
tennis.
24-Sep-2008
Tayler Davis's Choice is Golden
No matter the sport, college coaches know that their success is
largely based on recruiting. You often hear coaches talk about their
commitment to recruiting and having a strategy where they want to
"build a fence" around their state with the idea of keeping the top
players in their area local. Coach Amanda Augustus of the California
Bears has executed this strategy with Tayler Davis of San Jose, Calif.
Today she announces her commitment to play for Cal.
18-Sep-2008
Top Prospect: Matt Kandath
Matt Kandath's two-handed forehand is like a two-dollar bill - it's
rarely encountered, but provides the value of more conventional
methods. The 16-year-old from Gansevoort, New York accrued noteworthy
results earlier this month at the U.S. Open junior championships and
in the next few weeks will circulate the country, taking the official
visits that will help determine his college choice.
21-Aug-2008
Top Prospect: Evan King
Evan King of Chicago has a number of high-profile accomplishments to
his name, including titles at the 2006 Easter Bowl 14s, 2006 USTA
Winter 16s and 2007 Illinois state high school championships. Now the
Blue Chip senior is surveying his many college options.
30-Jul-2008
Top Prospect: Jacqueline Cako
Three years ago, Jacqueline Cako didn't win a match at her first
national tournament, the 14s Easter Bowl. But now, the rising senior
from Brier, Wash. is one of the most coveted recruits in the nation,
and she has the voice mails to prove it.
10-Jul-2008
Top Prospect: Lauren Embree
A top-ranked junior tennis player who loves the sport and the
inevitable travel it requires would normally be a prime candidate for
a high profile tennis academy. But Lauren Embree, a rising senior
from Marco Island, Fla., has chosen to live and train at home, where
she attends a public high school and maintains a circle of
non-tennis-playing friends.
26-Jun-2008
Commitment Comments: Ryan Lipman Chooses Commodores
"When I stepped on campus, it just felt right," said blue chip recruit
Ryan Lipman of his recent decision to join the Vanderbilt Commodores
in the fall of 2009. "I knew people and I love the city of Nashville.
It just felt perfect."
23-Jun-2008
Nunic heads to Beantown one year after graduation
She is a blue chip recruit with a successful junior career and a year
of professional tennis under her belt. She is 19 and she knows she
wants to be a sports psychologist someday. This fall, Stefanie Nunic
of New York will play college tennis at Boston University. Alana Marcu
talks with Nunic about her decision.
21-May-2008
Getting To Know Defending MSHSL Champ Wyatt McCoy
Wyatt McCoy of Shoreview, Minn., became the first eighth grader in
history to win the AA singles title at the Minnesota State High School
Tournament in 2007. Although he has made a name for himself at the
national and international level, McCoy looks forward to helping his
Mounds View High School team capture the AA team championship.
24-Apr-2008
Top Prospect: Rachael White
She's tall, she hits a big ball and she lives in suburban Chicago. Five
star junior Rachael White, ranked 20th in the class of 2009, has taken
two unofficial visits, to the University of Illinois and the
University of Wisconsin, but her mind is far from made up. Colette Lewis
talks with White about her tennis and her college plans.
11-Apr-2008
Spring Signing Week '08: Ryan Ybarra Announces
Five-star recruit Ryan Ybarra had already turned down
scholarship offers to schools in California and South Carolina when he
drew interest from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
The teenager from the piney woods of East Texas confesses that
he didn't know much about the school, but he fired off an email to
head coach Mait DuBois, and a trip was arranged.
11-Apr-2008
Spring Signing Week '08: Demos Heading to Drake
Four-star recruit Gabriela Demos is the top-ranked player in
Missouri and 134 in her TennisRecruiting class. Her champion's heart
and athletic skills got Demos on TennisRecruting's Hot 100 list in
2006. Back then, she made it her goal to attend a university and
represent it on the tennis court. That goal has been achieved: Demos
has committed to Drake University.
10-Apr-2008
Spring Signing Week '08: Andrew Carter Decides
The #1 recruit in North Carolina is Andrew Carter (Summerfield, NC).
The 5-Star prospect announces his decision today from his final five -
Virginia, Louisville, UNC Wilmington, Illinois State, and Wisconsin.
10-Apr-2008
Spring Signing Week '08: Northwestern Recruit Sicora Owes It All To Summer School
For most kids, the memories of going to summer school are enough
to make one cringe. While all of your friends are enjoying their
summer break sleeping in or playing outside, you are forced to wake at
the crack of dawn and go to school. For Michael Sicora, of Buffalo,
Minn., his memories of summer school are a little different, as it
literally changed his life. It was there, he took his first tennis
class, and as he says now, "the rest is history, I guess."
9-Apr-2008
Spring Signing Week '08: Rice Lands Tachibana
It was between Princeton, Harvard and Rice, but according to
17-year-old Texan Isamu Tachibana, it wasn't the proximity to home
that led him to ultimately choose Rice over the Ivys.
9-Apr-2008
Spring Signing Week '08: Sianna Simmons Decides
Signing Day continues with a commitment announcement from 5-Star
senior Sianna Simmons (Atlanta, GA). Simmons, one of the top
remaining recruits in the country, chooses the Arizona State
Sun Devils over a host of other schools.
8-Apr-2008
Spring Signing Week '08: Klores an Aggie
Growing up in the tiny east Texas town of Franklin, just 30 minutes
from Texas A&M University, Austin Klores was always an Aggie at heart.
As a rising Texas junior player, he watched countless Aggie tennis
matches at the George P. Mitchell Tennis Center. Those matches had
burned a deep impression in the teenager's brain, and so Klores signed
a national letter of intent to play for A&M next August.
7-Apr-2008
Spring Signing Week '08: Kargl Chooses the Tribe
For five-star recruit Katie Kargl, team spirit and school size
mattered most. When she visited The College of William and Mary,
however, she found a group of women in a small school setting who
played topnotch tennis, who hit the books just as hard, and who
enjoyed each other as friends off court, very much like Kargl herself.
4-Apr-2008
Countdown: Zach Nicholson Full Speed Ahead
Located in Annapolis, Maryland, the US Naval Academy consistently
offers one of the finest four-year educations available and the
experience of a lifetime. The rich history and tradition of the
institution led to a commitment from Zachary Nicholson (Bowie, MD).
3-Apr-2008
Countdown: Wolf Decides Among Ivy Powers
Like any college-bound athlete in their final semester of school and
final months of junior sport, Emily Wolf appears to be an excited,
positive, somewhat relaxed, somewhat nervous teenager ready to embark
on her long sought-after goal of playing for an Ivy League college
tennis team. "After going on my recruiting trips and narrowing my
choices down, Penn seemed like the best fit for me."
2-Apr-2008
Countdown: Pine Brothers Stick Together
Charles Pine could see the logistical nightmares coming. With twin
sons who are NCAA Division I-caliber players, he wondered what would
happen if they attended different universities. But he won't have to
worry about that. Jonathan and Zachary Pine of Vienna, Va. elected to
stay in-state and attend Virginia Tech.
1-Apr-2008
Countdown: Herzberg Heads for the Bears
Five-star recruit Cassandra Herzberg is a young woman who is not
afraid to leave her comfort zones. Herzberg, a sun-spoiled Florida
native, is going to Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island,
where temperatures hover in the 40s on a nice winter day.
27-Mar-2008
Countdown: Five-Star Turpin Heads to College Station
Ashley Turpin was born into a storied Texas tennis family, the
granddaughter and daughter of top college players. Now, the gutsy
17-year-old is poised to write her own college tennis chapter - at
Texas A&M University. After signing a letter of intent last fall to
play for the Aggies, the five-star recruit from New Braunfels, Tex.,
now bubbles with excitement when she talks about joining the squad at
College Station next August.
27-Mar-2008
Top Prospect: Ryan Lipman
Ryan Lipman's one-handed backhand, creative spins, crisp volleys, and
his favorite surface - grass - recall a bygone era in tennis. Add the
plethora of sportsmanship awards Lipman has garnered during his junior
career, and it's little wonder the blue-chipper is high on the list of
many of the nation's top Division 1 schools.
26-Mar-2008
Countdown: Clausen Stays In-State
Neil Clausen plays the piano and loves chess. He's a voracious reader
and an outstanding student. And, he also happens to be a five-star
tennis recruit. Rollins College may have struck gold with this
multi-talented teen-ager.
25-Mar-2008
Countdown: Ramos A Trojan for Another Four Years
Joining Coach Richard Gallien's Women of Troy this fall will be
Alison Ramos. Ramos, of course, attended Troy High School in Fullerton,
California. With this sort of coincidence did any other school really
stand a chance?
28-Feb-2008
An Interview with World's Top Junior Ricardas Berankis
Ricardas Berankis had a memorable 2007, capturing the U.S. Open Junior
championship, training with Roger Federer, playing Davis Cup, signing
with IMG and winning the season's last two ITF junior tournaments to
finish the year as World Junior Champion. Colette Lewis of
ZooTennis.com got the chance to sit down with Berankis last month in
Miami.
22-Feb-2008
Gators Add Another Alexander
It's only February, but junior Jessica Alexander has already made up
her mind to join older sister Megan at the University of Florida. And
by joining the Gators early, the five-star recruit from Dallas will
have an opportunity to play two spring seasons alongside Megan, a
sophomore.
24-Jan-2008
Top Prospect: Jarmere Jenkins
Jarmere Jenkins grew up learning from his four older tennis-playing
brothers, taking the best parts of their games as motivation to
improve his own. Jenkins melded their qualities into a game that has
made him one of the top juniors nationally and internationally.
Colette Lewis talked with Jenkins about his future plans.
3-Jan-2008
Gators Get Cohen
Head Coach Roland Thornqvist and the Florida Gators are ringing in the
New Year with extra enthusiasm now that Julia Cohen, one of the
world's top juniors, has joined the team for the 2008 dual season.
20-Dec-2007
Oudin Soars to No. 4 in the World after Stellar Autumn
Back in September, Melanie Oudin needed a wild card to participate in
the main draw of the U.S. Open Junior Championships. Three months
later the 16-year-old from Marietta, Ga. occupies the No. 4 spot in
the ITF World Junior rankings, having reeled off 27 straight junior
victories. Colette Lewis talks with Oudin about her recent surge.
10-Dec-2007
Caledonia Heads for the Ocean
When four-star recruit Nicholas (Nick) Caledonia arranged an official
visit to the University of California-Santa Barbara last month, Coach
Marty Davis made an unusual request: "Bring your wet suit." After a
visit that included surfing in the Pacific, Caledonia made a verbal
commitment to play for the Gauchos.
29-Nov-2007
Top Prospect: Jessica Alexander
Five star recruit Jessica Alexander's life has included tennis since
she was four years old, and when the 16-year-old Texan considers her
future, she doesn't see that changing much.
16-Nov-2007
Signing Week: Mather is off to Gainesville
We wrap up our Signing Week commitment announcements with Blue Chip
senior Joanna Mather (Duluth, Ga.).
Today, Mather announces her choice from among five southeastern
schools: Clemson, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Florida, and Florida State.
16-Nov-2007
Signing Week: Boyajian Chooses North Carolina Blue
Florida's Brennan Boyajian knew he would have a wide range of options
when it came to selecting a college. The senior took five unofficial
visits during the summer, so when he decided late last month
to sign with the University of North Carolina, he knew he'd done his
homework.
15-Nov-2007
Signing Week: Wildcat Quigley
The top recruit in the state of Kentucky is Eric Quigley (Pewee
Valley, Kentucky). Quigley, a perennial Top 10 player, is a fan of
the SEC. His college finalists included four SEC programs - Kentucky,
Georgia, Florida, Alabama. Today, the Blue Chip recruit announces his
college commitment from amongst those four.
15-Nov-2007
Signing Week: Gilchrist heads to Athens
The #1-ranked recruit this year is Nadja Gilchrist (Webster, NY).
Everyone always wants to keep tabs on #1, and Gilchrist recently announced
her intention to sign with Jeff Wallace's Georgia Bulldogs. Today, the
highly-recruited senior stops by to comment on her college decision.
14-Nov-2007
Signing Day: Keri Wong is a Tiger
Blue Chip recruit Keri Wong (Jackson, Miss.) has been dominant in
tournaments in the southeast and throughout the nation. Her 55-17
record over the past year includes 13 wins over Blue Chip opponents
and championships at the Interscholastics and Tennis Express ITF
Championships. That kind of performance attracts a lot of college
coaches. Today, Signing Day, find out where Wong will sign her
National Letter of Intent.
14-Nov-2007
Signing Day: Doverspike Rolls with the Tide
Signing Day keeps moving with another commitment announcement - this
time from 5-Star senior Richard Doverspike (Duluth, Ga.). Doverspike
had narrowed his list of schools to Georgia, Georgia Tech, Alabama,
Tennessee, and Penn State. And today, Signing Day, he is ready to
announce a commitment.
9-Nov-2007
Countdown: Hilary Bartlett Decides
Over the past year, we have interviewed a number of top tennis
players who are also exceptional students. One player with both
of those qualities is Blue Chip recruit Hilary Bartlett (New York, NY).
Today, Bartlett announces her college choice from among Harvard,
Princeton, and Yale.
7-Nov-2007
Countdown: Clayton Announces Decision
Blue Chip senior Courtney Clayton
is one of the most coveted recruits in the country. Her tennis resume
has it all: national titles, extensive international play, USA team
titles, and wins at the professional level. Today she announces her
college decision.
6-Nov-2007
Countdown: Florida's Burkhardt Chooses Gators
Blue Chip Joey Burkhardt grew up wearing the orange and blue athletic
gear of the University of Florida, and there won't be any wardrobe
changes for his college years, as the right-hander from St. Augustine
has verbally committed to the Gators.
5-Nov-2007
Rebirth at Tulane: Lindsay Dvorak Commits
In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina rolled through the Gulf Coast and
damaged a number of communities - most notably New Orleans. Tulane
University was forced to cancel its tennis programs for the past two
years, but women's tennis returns in 2008-09. One of the first
recruits to commit to Tulane is 5-Star recruit Lindsay Dvorak. We
talked with Dvorak about her decision.
31-Oct-2007
Countdown: Wilson a Boilermaker
Thomas Wilson had dreamed about the moment for years, but the
five-star recruit was caught off guard earlier this month when Purdue
offered him a spot. He took time to think it over. But the more he
thought, the clearer the decision became.
30-Oct-2007
Countdown: Nevolo Stays in Home State
Blue Chip recruit Dennis Nevolo took the maximum five official visits
this fall, but in the end, it was an unofficial visit to the
University of Illinois that convinced him to join the Fighting Illini.
25-Oct-2007
Countdown: Lauren McHale Update
Lauren McHale's tennis journey began ten years ago in Hong Kong; in
the next several weeks, the 17-year-old from New Jersey will select
another destination that will shape her future: a college campus.
24-Oct-2007
Countdown: Marino to Don Yellow Jacket Next Fall
She took only one official visit, but for Blue Chip Rebecca Marino of
Vancouver, British Columbia, it was enough. After meeting the coaches
and the team during a September trip to the Georgia Tech campus,
Marino was convinced it was the place for her.
23-Oct-2007
Countdown: Ryan Thacher to Stanford
There is only one #1, and his name is Ryan Thacher (Studio City,
Calif.). Thacher is a unanimous choice as the top recruit in America,
standing at #1 in the USTA Boys 18s and the #1-ranked senior on the
College Recruiting List. Combine that with a 4.5 GPA and near-perfect
board scores, and every college coach in America is after him. Last
week, he made his decision, and tennis fans in Palo Alto are excited.
22-Oct-2007
Countdown: Wil Spencer Selects Texas A&M
College Station, Texas is the next stop for blue chip senior Wil
Spencer, who has verbally committed to Texas A&M University. For
Spencer, the Tennis Recruiting Network's second-ranked player in the
class of 2008, the choice was between Florida and Texas A&M.
After taking official visits to both schools, he decided in favor of
the Aggies.
9-Oct-2007
Casey Watt Decides
With Signing Week only a few weeks away, many seniors are starting to
make their college decisions. Today's commitment announcement comes
from Blue Chip senior Casey Watt. The Pennsylvania native decides
from among Virginia, Notre Dame, Penn State, and Penn.
8-Oct-2007
Wilkins excited about Minnesota
At Minnesota, Head Coach Tyler Thomson is building for success.
After a 5-18 showing in '06, the Golden Gophers finished the
2007 season with a 12-11 record and a FILA ranking of #61.
Thomson looks to be keeping things on track for the future with
strong recruiting. He recently received a verbal commitment from
the top player in Minnesota for Fall 2008 - 5-Star recruit Niltooli
Wilkins. We talked with Wilkins about her decision to stay
in-state and compete for Minnesota in the Big 10.
27-Sep-2007
Top Prospect: Alison Riske
Most juniors head to the USTA National championships hoping to catch
the eye of a Division I coach at the school of their choice. But when
it's Billie Jean King who is impressed by your game and expresses an
interest in speaking with you, well, forgive USTA Girls 18s Nationals
finalist Alison Riske for being a little awestruck.
20-Sep-2007
Top Target: Dennis Nevolo
When blue chip recruit Dennis Nevolo of Gurnee, Ill., boarded an
airplane bound for New York last month as the 31st alternate for the
US Open junior championships, he didn't know if his racquets would get
any use. Not only did he get in, but he won both qualifying matches
and two more wins in the main draw. Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com
sat down with Nevolo to discuss all things tennis.
30-Aug-2007
Recruiting Profile: James "Bo" Seal
Sixteen-year-old Bo Seal of Chattanooga, Tenn., has played many sports
in his life, but he is now focusing on tennis. A finalist in both
singles and doubles at the Nationals in Kalamazoo earlier this month,
he is now looking forward to another opportunity to delve deeper into
the sport, when he heads for the famous IMG/Bollettieri Academy in
Bradenton, Fla.
10-Aug-2007
Early Arrivals: Logan Hansen to Stanford
TennisRecruiting.net has featured a number of top players - including
Blue Chip senior Logan Hansen (Santa Monica, Calif.) When we profiled
Hansen last winter, she called Stanford her dream school. Sometimes,
dreams come true. We talked with Hansen about her verbal commitment
to the Cardinal.
7-Aug-2007
Early Arrivals: Drew Courtney to Virginia
The 18s National Hard Courts are taking place this week in Berkeley,
California and Kalamazoo, Michigan. Many college coaches are in
attendance - checking out the best that the Class of 2008 has to
offer. One Top 25 athlete that has already made a commitment is
Drew Courtney (Clifton, Va.) Courtney recently decided to stay
in-state and play college tennis for the Virginia Cavaliers.
1-Aug-2007
Early Arrivals: Ryann Cutillo to Wake Forest
Although the recruiting season is only getting started for the Class
of 2008, a number of high-profile recruits have already made verbal
commitments. Today we look at Blue Chip senior Ryann Cutillo (Kings
Park, NY), who recently committed to Wake Forest University.
13-Jul-2007
Imposing on the Court
At 6-foot-1, Kendal Woodard, a 13-year-old from Atlanta, is an
imposing figure on the tennis court. But her warm smile and outgoing
personality has made her a favorite among many on the USTA junior
circuit. Jon Johnson of the Dothan Eagle talks with the 5-Star
eighth-grader at the Southwest Zone Team Championship.
9-Jul-2007
Reflecting on Katrina with Top Prospect Charlie Jones
Charlie Jones, a senior at Destrehan High School in the New Orleans
area, is one of the top junior tennis players in the country. An
excellent student, he is likely receiving phone calls from college
coaches across the country. But things were much different in August
2005 - when Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf area. Jones talks
tennis and more...
28-Jun-2007
Top Prospect: Bradley Klahn
Bradley Klahn is a quick study. The 16-year-old left-hander from
Poway, Calif. was eleven when he began playing tennis, and within a
few years he became a fixture in the Tennis Recruiting Network's top
ten. Now his attention turns to selecting a college, and he realizes
there's a lot to learn on that front too. With his impressive
performances on the court and in the classroom, there are many college
coaches hoping for an opportunity to instruct him in the process.
18-May-2007
Looking Ahead: Michael Chamerski
When I talk to the best coaches across the country, I find that they
are all faced with the same question of "What can you do for me?" In
most cases, coaches are doing everything in their power to make a
student successful. The real question is whether the players are
doing their part - and being their own coach. One player who
impresses me in this regard is Michael Chamerski. Michael has mature
shot selection, an uncanny ability to knock a forehand winner, and a
genuine love for the game.
10-May-2007
Top Junior Prospect: Wil Spencer
Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer are in the midst of impressive winning
streaks on clay and grass. Wil Spencer's streak is not surface
related, but it too goes back years; the 17-year-old Floridian has
been at the top spot in the Tennis Recruiting Network's Class of 2008
rankings since November of 2005 - a stretch of 80 weeks. With that
record of sustained excellence, it's no surprise that college coaches
from the country's top Division I schools have been eager to get his
attention.
30-Apr-2007
Rux Chooses Baylor
He had plenty of alternatives, but Jordan Rux, of Kerrville, Texas has
decided to stay in the Lone Star State, committing to join the Baylor
Bears this fall. Ranked third by the USTA and eighth among the class
of 2007 by TennisRecruiting.net, Rux was a much-sought-after prospect
when he began taking visits this spring.
13-Apr-2007
Spring Signing Week '07: Sibilski Announces
We wrap up our special Signing Week coverage with a commitment from
5-Star recruit Agnes Sibilski (Bethesda, MD). Sibilski is extremely
accomplished both on the court and in the classroom, and her choices
came down to a number of Ivy League schools. Find out where
she decided right now...
12-Apr-2007
Spring Signing Week '07: Cox Commits
Signing Week continues, and today we have a commitment from Blue Chip
recruit Bradley Cox (Duluth, GA). Cox made his decision from among
Texas A&M, Vanderbilt, and Kentucky.
11-Apr-2007
Spring Signing Week '07: Dorr Decides
At long last, Signing Day is here. We kick off the week with a
commitment announcement from one of the top recruits in the
nation - Alexis Dorr (Doylestown, PA). Dorr considered a number
of college programs, but she ended up selecting a Big 10 school.
Find out why there is rejoicing in the Hawkeye state.
6-Apr-2007
Countdown: Big Green Curtis
With Signing Week starting on Monday, we check in with one last senior
who has made his decision. This fall, Curtis Roby (New York, NY) is
heading to Dartmouth College. Roby is one of three 4-Star recruits
who selected the Big Green.
30-Mar-2007
Countdown: Nze heads to Duke
Many of the very top juniors drift away from junior tennis and start
playing futures events - to challenge themselves and to earn points on
the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour. One of these players is Blue Chip senior
Ellah Nze (Delray Beach, FL). With a pro tournament title under her
belt and a Top-500 WTA ranking, Nze plans to head to Durham, North
Carolina this Fall as a Duke Blue Devil.
28-Mar-2007
Countdown: Kim to Princeton
Florida always has a strong crop of players, but this year's seniors
look even stronger than usual. One Florida senior looking to make
an immediate impact in college is Ryan Kim (Miami, FL) who heads
to Princeton this fall.
15-Feb-2007
Recruiting Profile: Jamie Hampton
2007 will be the year of the professional women's circuit for
17-year-old Jamie Hampton. Although she played in the French and U.S.
Open qualifying tournaments in 2006 and reached the final of a $10,000
Pro Circuit event last June, the blue chip recruit still found time
for a few high profile junior events. But this year her emphasis has
changed.
12-Feb-2007
Top Junior Prospect: Logan Hansen
"She is one of those unique competitors that you come across every ten
years or so." Those were the words used to describe Logan Hansen
(Santa Monica, CA) by Dr. Lee Herzog, one of Hansen's coaches. The Blue
Chip junior had an outstanding year in 2006 - winning five championships
and posting fifteen wins against Blue Chip competition. And although she
has aspirations to play professional tennis, she plans to first secure a
college degree.
9-Feb-2007
Looking Forward: Denis Kudla
The little blond kid wouldn't look out of place in the next "Bad News
Bears" movie. Physically, he might remind you of Tanner - not
big-serving Roscoe, but the Little Leaguer with the "Chico Bail's
Bonds" ad on his jersey. But get him on a tennis court, and you can
see the genius and savvy possessed by Denis Kudla of Northern
Virginia.
8-Feb-2007
Recruiting Profile: Joel Samaha
With a sister at Princeton and a brother recently graduated from
Dartmouth, it's not surprising that Joel Samaha views those two Ivy
League schools as serious possibilities for his own higher education.
But the junior at Tampa's H.B. Plant High School hasn't made any final
decisions just yet.
2-Feb-2007
Talking with Harry Fowler
Harry Fowler, a Blue Chip freshman from Houston, Tex., is coming off
an excellent year in 2006. Highlights include two national titles and
an appearance in the finals at the Easter Bowl. Gregg Jones caught up
with Fowler and talked with him about his tennis and his goals.
1-Jan-2007
Guzick in Crimson
Happy New Year! TennisRecruiting.net is excited to
kick off 2007 with a huge college commitment announcement from Blue Chip
senior recruit Will Guzick (Greer, SC).
We first profiled this impressive young man back in February, and today
he is ready to make his announcement from among
Harvard, Princeton, and Yale.
27-Nov-2006
Talking with Michael McClune
I understand many juniors are taught to focus on the process, think
long-term, and develop for the future. However, very few juniors are
able to detach themselves from the results and stay the course. As a
consequence, only a handful of juniors are able to translate their
games into encouraging professional results. In my eyes, Michael
McClune (Irvine, CA) is one of the few American juniors who can
legitimately battle on the ITF Pro Circuit.
10-Nov-2006
Signing Week: Hook 'em, Maggie
California is fertile ground for recruiting in any college sport, and
tennis is no exception. Twenty five of the Top 100 women's recruits
nationally come from the Golden State, and one of the best is Blue Chip
prospect Maggie Mello (Laguna Beach, CA). Today, Mello announces
her decision from among California, Georgia Tech, Texas, USC, UCLA,
Wake Forest, and Washington.
9-Nov-2006
Signing Week: Jared Pinsky Decides
The most highly-regarded male recruit in the mid-Atlantic states is
Jared Pinsky (Potomac, MD). Pinsky, the former #1 player in the
National Boys' 16s, is the lone Blue Chip recruit from the
Maryland/Virginia area. And today he announces his college commitment at
TennisRecruiting.net.
8-Nov-2006
Signing Week: Wildcats Sign Rispoli
Signing Day is indeed here, and Peter Rispoli is excited to make his
college decision public. The choices for the 6'3" right-hander from
Naples, Florida came down to a half-dozen schools:
William & Mary, Penn State, Wisconsin, Northwestern, Ohio State,
and Stanford.
8-Nov-2006
Signing Week: Hickey in White and Gold
Blue Chip recruit Noelle Hickey (Hackensack, NJ) has been planning to
attend an ACC school for quite some time. She considered Florida
State, Georgia Tech, North Carolina, and Wake Forest before narrowing
the list to Tech and Wake. Today, Signing Day, find out where Hickey
will sign her Letter of Intent.
3-Nov-2006
Countdown: Sanchez to USC
TennisRecruiting.net has featured a number of Blue Chip senior
recruits this summer and fall. One of the best is Maria Sanchez
(Modesto, CA). We profiled Sanchez back in early August when her
college options were wide open. Just a few weeks later, Sanchez
committed to the USC Trojans. We talked again with the prized
recruit about her verbal commitment.
2-Nov-2006
Countdown: Elon Lands Helpingstine
Elon University is a beautiful school located in the Piedmont region
of North Carolina. The Phoenix tennis program is coming off a strong
season - an 8-1 conference record earned them a share of the Southern
Conference regular-season championship in 2006. Recently, 4-Star
recruit Chase Helpingstine announced his commitment to Elon. We
talked with Helpingstine about his junior career and his decision
process.
1-Nov-2006
Learning From Christina McHale
I was in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the B1 ITF Junior Event recently and
witnessed some of the best juniors in the country. On the second day
of the event, I was roaming the courts hoping to find someone who
would catch my eye. Eventually, I settled on the first stadium court -
impressed by the court presence of a fourteen year old girl named
Christina McHale.
27-Oct-2006
Countdown: Deacs Pick Up Reveche
Wake Forest University has a proud tennis tradition, with eleven NCAA
appearances over the past twelve years. The Deacons are hoping
to continue their winning ways, and second-year coach Chad
Skorupka has wasted no time on the recruiting trail for 2007 -
already picking up a verbal commitment from Katarina Reveche (Canoga
Park, CA).
26-Oct-2006
Countdown: Hannah Chooses the Colonials
The George Washington University is located in our nation's capitol
- just a few blocks away from the White House. Visiting the school is
an experience like no other. In July, GW hired Greg Munoz as their
new men's tennis coach. And in August, Munoz received his first
verbal commitment for the Class of 2007 - from 4-Star prospect Erik
Hannah (Bradenton, FL).
20-Oct-2006
Countdown: Kellen Damico
Kellen Damico of Parker, Colorado sits on top of the junior tennis
world. At the age of 17 (first year U18), Kellen already owns a
Wimbledon Junior Doubles Championship as well as reaching a
career-high #6 in the ITF Junior Rankings. He is also the #1 senior
on the College Recruiting List. The impressive results are only the
beginning of his long journey towards the top of the game.
5-Oct-2006
Recruiting Profile: Clint Bowles
Floridian Clint Bowles has traveled the world this year, playing
top-level junior tournaments in Sao Paulo, Milan, Paris, London and
New York. But his tennis trips this fall won't be to world capitals.
Instead, he'll be visiting college campuses, narrowing his choices,
which he describes as "wide open" now.
22-Sep-2006
Soft-Spoken, But Loud on the Court: Nicole Gibbs
New player ratings come out in just over a week, but there is
little suspense for thirteen-year-old Nicole Gibbs (Shaker Heights,
OH). The Blue Chip athlete has been dominant in her first year in the
14s. How dominant? Her last four outings netted championships at the
Clay Courts (14s) and Midwest Open (16s) - and second-place finishes
at the Girls' 14 Nationals and a National Open (16s).
21-Sep-2006
Illini Strike Early
The University of Illinois has a strong nucleus of players returning
for 2006-07 - along with a pair of highly-regarded incoming freshmen.
And this summer, head coach Brad Dancer's hard work on the recruiting
trail has already paid off; two 5-Star recruits have already made
verbal commitments to wear the Orange and Blue in the Fall of 2007.
28-Aug-2006
Ten-Time National Champion Jack Sock
At just thirteen years of age, Jack Sock (Lincoln, NE) has already
accomplished what most tennis players will only dream about - ten USTA
national championships. And he has won all ten of these championships
in a single age division - the Boys' 12s.
24-Aug-2006
Top Prospect: Calvin Bennett
Five-Star senior recruit Calvin Bennett (Sandy, Utah) is a busy guy
these days. Playing in Level 1 tournaments, checking out the top
liberal arts colleges in America, and being an honor roll student at a
prestigious private school tends to keep you busy. Bennett talks
tennis and updates us on his recruiting status.
11-Aug-2006
Top Prospect: Maria Sanchez
Maria Sanchez is a two-sport star who excels in both basketball and
tennis. The Blue Chip senior prospect talks to us about her junior
tennis career - and her college decision-making process.
10-Aug-2006
Gator Heaven for Tyler Hochwalt
Last month, Tyler Hochwalt accounced his commitment to the University
of Florida at ZooTennis.com. Tyler talked with us at the Clay Courts,
and he commented on his recent commitment.
2-Aug-2006
Reka Zsilinszka Decides
Blue Chip Recruit Reka Zsilinszka (Fayetteville, NC) will head off to
San Jose later this week to compete at the USTA Nationals. Although
dozens of coaches from top schools will be in attendance, none of them
will be approaching the talented right-hander. That is because
Zsilinszka has already made her college choice - a choice that she
announces today at the Tennis Recruiting Network.
1-Aug-2006
Forman a Demon Deacon
Over the past few months, we have featured several Blue Chip recruits
from the Class of 2007. One of those prospects - Steven Forman (Del
Mar, CA) - recently committed to Wake Forest. We caught up with
him recently to get comments on his verbal commitment.
31-Jul-2006
Recruiting Profile: Nick Meister
Nick Meister describes himself as "pretty much just a Southern
California kid," listing the beach, skateboarding and hanging out with
friends as his favorite pastimes. But once the 17-year-old rising
senior at Tesoro High School captured the Southern California Junior
Sectional 18s singles and doubles titles last month, there wasn't much
time for those pursuits. Instead, he was busy opening recruiting mail
and on July 1, fielding phone calls from college coaches across the
country.
13-Jul-2006
Top Prospect: Steven Forman
Rising senior and Blue Chip prospect Steven Forman (Del Mar, CA) has
the full attention of top college coaches from across the country.
His powerful serve, aggressive game, and performance in the classroom
make the California native an ideal candidate. And his 6'4" frame
doesn't hurt, either.
3-Jul-2006
Like Father, Like Son: Smith to Georgia Tech
Don't look now, but the contact period for the Class of 2007 starts
this weekend. That means college coaches will spend time courting
rising seniors - and we are likely to hear more college commitments.
One early commitment comes from Blue Chip prospect Ryan Smith
(Marietta, GA), who recently decided to stay in-state at Georgia Tech.
Smith chose the Yellow Jackets over Duke and Stanford.
15-Jun-2006
Price is Right: Christopher Price Decides
They grow 'em big in Texas, and Christopher Price is no exception.
The long, tall, 6'4" junior from Houston has been playing fantastic
tennis as of late - going 12-2 in May with a championship, and he
reached the quarterfinals of last week's Texas Sectionals. Today,
Price is ready to announce his college commitment from seven candidate
schools: Stanford, North Carolina, Virginia, Duke, Michigan, Georgia
Tech, and Texas.
29-May-2006
Top Junior Prospect: Tyler Hochwalt
Blue Chip junior Tyler Hochwalt had an excellent year in 2005, and he
hopes to build on his successes this summer. Since his appearance at
Kalamazoo last August, the 17-year-old has played almost exclusively
in ITF events - picking up some nice wins along the way. As far as
college goes, Hochwalt is essentially open with seven schools on his
list. So college coaches can't wait to talk with him this summer.
26-May-2006
Jennifer Meredith: Team Player
Blue Chip junior prospect Jennifer Meredith (Marietta, GA) realized
long ago that she wanted to make an early college decision. That time
has arrived - today she announces her college commitment.
Meredith's decision came down to four major universities in the
Southeast: Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
22-May-2006
Schnugg Decides Early
Another week, another verbal commitment from a Blue Chip prospect in
the junior class. This time it's Nathaniel Schnugg (Medford, OR) who
is ready to make his announcement. The 6'3" junior plans to enroll in
college in January 2007 after an early high school graduation this
fall. His final five schools were Georgia Tech, California, Stanford,
Texas, and Georgia.
8-May-2006
The Left Stuff: Ryan Thacher's Mission Includes Tennis and School
Ryan Thacher is a tennis player now. Although he excelled at
baseball, football and soccer, the sixteen-year-old Southern
Californian is devoting his athletic talents these days to kick serves
and backhand volleys, not pass routes and pitch counts.
1-May-2006
Wahoowa! Houston Barrick Decides
The Spring signing period for the Class of 2006 just started a couple
of weeks ago, but we already have a commitment from a top prospect in
the Class of 2007. Blue Chip recruit Houston Barrick (Brentwood, TN)
- who just won a title at the USTA Spring Nationals - has made
unofficial visits to Georgia Tech, Georgia, Vanderbilt, Virginia, and
North Carolina. Barrick is ready to make a decision from among
those five schools.
14-Apr-2006
Spring Signing Week '06: Saddler Decides
We wrap up our special Signing Week coverage with a commitment from
4-Star recruit Deandra Saddler (Alpharetta, GA). Saddler narrowed her list
to a set of widely-varied schools across the country - Colorado,
Elon, Mississippi State, UNC Greensboro, and Virginia Tech. Find out
where she decided.
13-Apr-2006
Spring Signing Week '06: Racz Commits
Signing Week rolls on, and today we have a commitment from Blue Chip
recruit Christopher Racz (Philadelphia, PA). Racz considered a host
of schools - but he ended up choosing a school that was not on his
list six weeks ago.
12-Apr-2006
Spring Signing Week '06: Hyndman Decides
Signing Day has finally arrived. With it, one of the top female
recruits in the country - Yvette Hyndman (Bradenton, FL) - announces
her college commitment. Her decision came down to two schools 3,000
miles from each other - Georgia and UCLA. Find out whether the
celebration is in Los Angeles or Athens.
3-Apr-2006
Countdown: Jeppson Chooses Amherst
Pamela Jeppson, the top senior recruit in Massachusetts, had her
choice of colleges. She chose to stay close to home and attend
Division III powerhouse Amherst. We talked with Jeppson about her
college decision process and her reasons for selecting Amherst.
9-Mar-2006
Top Junior Prospect: Casey Cullen
Starting next week, TennisRecruiting.net will focus heavily on the
senior class as we kick off the "Countdown to Signing Day." But
today, in the calm before the storm, we finish our three-week glance
at the Class of 2007 with a visit to Beverly Hills, Michigan and
4-Star junior prospect Casey Cullen.
3-Mar-2006
Top Junior Prospect: Reka Zsilinszka
Today we look ahead to the Class of 2007 and top junior prospect Reka
Zsilinszka (Fayetteville, NC). Top programs around the country
already know about this Blue Chip athlete who has been ranked as high
as #3 in her class. Find out what she says about her junior career
and the college decision process.
23-Feb-2006
Top Junior Prospect: Will Guzick
In a few weeks, all eyes will be on the senior class and the Spring
Signing Period. But today, we look at one of the premier recruits in
the junior class: Will Guzick (Greer, SC). Top programs will surely
chase after this Blue Chip prospect - Guzick's performance on the
court is rivaled only by his phenomenal record in the classroom.
17-Feb-2006
Wildcats sign Johnston
The state of Ohio features four girls who rank in the top 50 of the
senior class. One of those four, 5-Star recruit Christine Johnston of
Columbus, signed with Kentucky during the fall signing period.
Johnston selected the Wildcats over several SEC and Big 10 programs.
6-Feb-2006
Hunt Views Georgia as Perfect Fit
Jamie Hunt has an impressive junior resume. He has played in six
Junior Grand Slams, finished third at Kalamazoo last year, is ranked
among the world's top 30 juniors by the International Tennis
Federation and is sixth in his class according to the Tennis
Recruiting Network. He wanted to play college tennis. So why wasn't
he the subject of intense signing pressure by Division I coaches this
fall?
3-Feb-2006
Plotkin: Blue Chip, Blue Devil
Blue Chip recruit Elizabeth Plotkin is one of the top American
tennis players in this year's senior class. Her abilities on the
court are obvious from her pedigree - which includes a quarterfinal
appearance at the US Open as well as a top-30 ITF ranking. Next year,
Plotkin will switch coasts - from San Francisco, California to Durham,
North Carolina - to play college tennis with the powerful Duke Blue
Devils.
26-Jan-2006
Tommy McGeorge to Iowa
One of the top seniors in the state of Arizona is Tommy McGeorge
(Tuscon, AZ). During the fall signing week, McGeorge committed to
the up-and-coming Iowa Hawkeyes. McGeorge selected Iowa over Arizona,
Notre Dame, and Penn State.
20-Jan-2006
Mustang Claire
In the recent conference shakeup, Southern Methodist University moved
from the WAC to Conference USA. The move has been kind to the
Mustangs in terms of recruiting. Head Coach Rob Howarth has followed
last year's solid recruiting effort with what should be one of the
top recruiting classes in C-USA for 2006-07. A key signee for SMU is
Claire Rietsch from Laguna Beach, California.
22-Dec-2005
Commodore Moye
The men's program down at Vanderbilt recently picked up three strong
commitments, including James Moye from Winter Park, Florida. Moye
signed his letter of intent during the fall signing period, selecting
the Commodores over Notre Dame, South Carolina, William & Mary,
and Virginia Tech.
11-Nov-2005
Anisimova to Penn
We wrap up our coverage of Fall Signing Week '05 with a decision
from Maria Anisimova (Hallandale Beach, FL). Anisimova plans to
attend the University of Pennsylvania next year.
10-Nov-2005
Justin Kronauge Decides
Who's #1 in the USTA Boys' 18 Singles Point Race? Justin
Kronauge, that's who. The senior from Dayton, Ohio has
decided to go to college rather than turn professional, and
today he announces his commitment at TennisRecruiting.net.
9-Nov-2005
Melissa Saiontz - Hold that Tiger!
Senior Melissa Saiontz (Miami, FL) announces her college commitment
today, November 9, the first day of the Fall signing period. The
choices for the Blue Chip prospect came down to four premier liberal
arts schools - Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, and Duke.
4-Nov-2005
Davison Chooses Texas
Blue Chip recruit Stephanie Davison (Port Orchard, WA) has made a
verbal commitment to the University of Texas, choosing the Longhorns
over Notre Dame, Northwestern, Washington, and Michigan. We talked to
the righthander shortly after her commitment.
27-Oct-2005
Q&A with Kevin Kaiser
Five-star prospect Kevin Kaiser (Saratoga, CA) has been carefully
mulling over his college choice, and he plans to make his decision
before the fall signing period. The 6-3, 180 pound righthander is
considering Stanford, Harvard, Michigan, and California. Kaiser
talks about his junior tennis career, his goals, and the schools he
is considering.
21-Oct-2005
Rielley Chooses Irish
One of the top recruits in this year's senior class is Blue Chip
prospect Colleen Rielley (Shawnee Mission, KS). Her tournament resume
over the past year is nothing short of gaudy: an overall record of
88-8, including an unbeaten run of 61-0 against 4- and 5-star
recruits. She won nine titles, including the USTA Winter National
Championships and two National Opens. And next fall, Rielley plans to
play her college tennis at the University of Notre Dame.
6-Oct-2005
Mixson leaning to Gators
The fall recruiting season is heating up, and one of the hottest
players in the Class of '06 is Bradley Mixson (Miami, FL). During
July and August - the height of the tournament season - Mixson had a
record of 18-6 in four premier national events: the National Open in
Tallahassee, the Clays, Junior Davis Cup, and the National
Championships in Kalamazoo. And 12 of those wins came over players
ranked in the Top 50. The Florida native talks recruiting with us,
and his top five includes three in-state schools.
26-Sep-2005
Alexander Down to Two
Sometime over the next few weeks, there will be rejoicing in either
Gainesville or Austin. Why? Because 2006 Blue Chip prospect Megan
Alexander (Spring Creek Academy, Dallas, TX) plans to announce her
college choice - and the two contenders are Florida and Texas. Both
schools have outstanding tennis programs - they met in the semifinals
of the NCAA championships this past year, where Texas won 4-3. This
month, they meet again in the recruiting arena for the services of
Alexander.
22-Sep-2005
Golden Bears lead for Stewart
Kallim Stewart (Ojai, CA) has the tools and talents college coaches are looking
for. His serve and forehand, record in the classroom, and performance on the
tennis court have caught the attention of many top coaches across the country.
Right now, the University of California (Berkeley, CA) is the leader for Stewart,
but Stewart names five other schools in contention for his services.
8-Sep-2005
Schellenberg Likes It Hot
With the summer behind us and the school year gearing up, top senior prospect Rook
Schellenberg (Dallas, TX) decided the time was right to narrow his list of colleges. The
6-0 right-hander lists his top four, in no particular order, as Texas, Virginia,
Illinois, and Florida State.
19-Aug-2005
Q&A with Matt Bruch
Matt Bruch (Lake Forest, IL) is the real deal. The Illinois native is arguably the top male tennis recruit in the Class of 2005. And next year, Bruch will head off to "The Farm" to play college tennis for the Stanford Cardinal.
18-Aug-2005
Wildcats Sign Marc Dwyer
Cerebral is a word normally used to describe the captain of the chess club or the spelling bee champion. (And no, I did not know how to spell appoggiatura.) Cerebral is not a term usually associated with the top juniors in American tennis. And yet, when talking about Marc Dwyer of Peachtree City, GA, that was the term that kept coming up.
18-Aug-2005
Wildcats Sign Marc Dwyer
Cerebral is a word normally used to describe the captain of the chess club or the spelling bee champion. (And no, I did not know how to spell appoggiatura.) Cerebral is not a term usually associated with the top juniors in American tennis. And yet, when talking about Marc Dwyer of Peachtree City, GA, that was the term that kept coming up.
12-Aug-2005
Kim a Bulldog
This fall, Janet Kim of Palisades Park, NJ will take a short drive up Interstate 95 to New Haven for college. Kim will play her collegiate tennis next year in the historic Ivy League - after committing to Yale University.
5-Aug-2005
Orban Heading to Maryland
"Quickness, quickness, and quickness." Those were the words used by Terry Sanford High School (Fayetteville, NC) tennis player Andy Orban to describe the strengths of his tennis game. Next season, that quickness will be on display in College Park, MD, when Orban begins his collegiate career at the University of Maryland.
4-Aug-2005
Q&A with Maggie Yahner
Maggie Yahner is the type of player all college coaches want playing for their teams. A Denver native now living in Las Vegas, Yahner has excelled on the junior circuit. She defeated highly-ranked players in big-time tournaments - while winning titles at National Opens and ITF events. Yahner is an impressive physical specimen, standing at 5-10 with an athletic frame. And, to top things off, she is an excellent student as well.
29-Jul-2005
William & Mary Signs Cash
The William and Mary women's tennis program had an excellent campaign in 2005, winning the CAA conference championship and advancing to the second round
of the NCAA tournament. The Tribe's future looks even brighter with a strong 2005 recruiting class - a class that features Lauren Cash from Northern Highlands High School (Allendale, NJ).
28-Jul-2005
Aggies Sign Top Texas Player
Although Baylor fell to UCLA 4-3 in the championship, the state of Texas is in position to reload - several Texas teams should be in contention for deep runs in the NCAA championships next year. Tim Cass and Texas A&M expect to be one of those teams, and Cass has signed one of the nation's top recruiting classes - a class headlined by Conor Pollock of San Antonio, TX.
27-Jul-2005
Buckeyes Pick Up Koniecko
The Ohio State men's tennis team has established itself as a very good program. The Buckeyes have made six straight NCAA Division I tournament appearances, and 2005 marks their fifth straight finish in the ITA Top 25. However, head coach Ty Tucker is looking to take his team to the next level this coming season and make a deep run into the NCAA tournament. In 2005-06, he should have the personnel to do it. All six of his starters should return next year, and he also adds blue chip recruit Bryan Koniecko of Jericho, NY.
26-Jul-2005
Robison Chooses Florida
The University of Florida has a tradition of excellence in women's tennis. This year was no exception - the Gators advanced to the semifinals of the NCAA tournament before falling to Texas 4-3. Florida returns five of six starters next year, and they will add punch to their lineup with top junior Keri Robison of Decatur, IL.
22-Jul-2005
Q&A with Meg Fanjoy
Tarheel born and Tarheel bred, Meg Fanjoy is excited about the prospect of playing her college tennis wearing the baby blue uniform of the University of North Carolina.
