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Jessica Kovalcik didn’t have the same resources as some high-level junior players had. She didn’t attend a prestigious academy or spend hours during the day on the court.

But she had a dream to play NCAA Division I college tennis once she realized it was possible. The blue chip junior from Plainfield, Illinois started playing tennis at age 4 after her father introduced her to the sport.

Blue Chip Jessica Kovalcik has Committed to Georgia Tech
© Contributed Photo

“I just fell in love with it,” Kovalcik said. “Growing up, we didn’t have as much money so it was hard for me to play as often as others and play as many tournaments. But I worked hard and my parents really helped me through that.”

Kovalcik will take the next step in her journey at Georgia Tech. She committed to the Yellowjackets earlier this spring. Kovalcik narrowed her choices down to 10 schools, and made official visits to Notre Dame and Georgia Tech.

“I feel like Georgia Tech has positive aspects in every direction that will all come together to help me grow not only as a person but also as a player,” she said. “Obviously the high-level academics it offers is extraordinary and it has an excellent sense of community. The team really prides itself on hard work and the coaches made me feel like I fit in.”