Heather Graf Named ITA’s JUCO Most Improved Sophomore Nationwide
The Riverside City College women's tennis team relied on a grip of talented returners and newcomers in one of the strongest seasons in most recent years. Leadership throughout the entire season was key and sophomore Heather Graf displayed that while dually improving her play. In recognition of her success, she was named the International Tennis Association (ITA) National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Most Improved Sophomore of the Year.
Graf is the first women's tennis student-athlete to receive national recognition. Graf went 13-8 on the season with five wins coming on her home court.
"It's indescribable," said Graf when asked about receiving this award. "It was definitely a shock. I think about how many players in the nation devoted so much of their time to the game of tennis and it was a honor to win this award."
She participated in the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) Singles and Doubles Championships. She entered the bracket as the 16th overall seed and advanced to the round of 32. She teamed up with freshman Yasmin Johnson and reached the round of 16 in doubles as well. They were they eighth ranked squad.