IRVINE, Calif. – The UC Irvine women's tennis team navigated a 2020-21 season unlike any other and found many successes along the way.

"We were all very excited to have the opportunity to practice and compete and come together as a team this season," said head coach Elizabeth Ferris. "We certainly had our ups and downs however, the positive attitudes, work ethic, support for one another, and perseverance shined through. We had many tough matches, and as a team we are so close to getting over the hump. With most of the same team returning this coming season, plus some new additions, I fully expect and look forward to us reaching our goals. We are all looking forward to next season!"

ON THE RECORD
In an unconventional year, the Anteaters played a full Big West schedule and faced three opponents outside of Big West schools. Overall, UCI went 2-11 and 2-6 in conference play.

The Anteaters earned Big West wins against UC Riverside, 5-2, and UC San Diego, 5-2.

UCI played several opponents close and earned the No. 7 seed at the Big West Tournament. The tournament was highlighted by the No. 3 doubles team of Dasee Carter and Emily Fowler earning a 6-4 win over YuSeung Suh and Natalie Duffy.

The Anteater team successfully did not face a COVID-19 pause.

JUMPING RIGHT IN
Freshman Emily Fowler made an immediate impact on the Anteater lineup. She tied for the most singles wins on the roster finishing 3-7 overall. Fowler saw action at the Nos. 4, 5, and 6 positions and also earned two Big West Conference wins.

In doubles, Fowler teamed up with Dasee Carter as the duo went 2-5 on the season at the No. 3 spot.  

"I think I'm speaking on behalf of all of my teammates when I say that I'm super grateful to have had a season this year despite the pandemic," said Fowler. "Even when it felt like everything was on pause, my teammates and I continued to put in the work on the court every day. This team is so special because everyone is so hard working and supportive of one another, which I am extremely appreciative of. Liz has also shown immense support for the team on the court and in the classroom! Going into the next season, I am determined to develop my game further and progress alongside my teammates. Let's go 'Eaters!"

DYNAMIC DUO
Jenna Schlatter and Jessica Tsukiji teamed up at No. 2 doubles and went a perfect 2-0 in conference play. The pair earned a 6-3 win over UC Riverside's Natalie Shamma and Mahli Silpachai followed by a 6-2 win over UCSD's Rachel Wagner and Anu Bhadada.

"We were so fortunate to have been able to compete this season and I will definitely cherish the moments shared with my teammates both on and off the court," said Jessica Tsukiji. "Despite numerous setbacks with injuries and the circumstances of Covid-19, we continued to show up for each other day in and day out which was something I was really proud to see and to be a part of. Regardless of whether we won or lost, we competed hard and left everything on the court. I also want to say a big thank you to Liz, our coach, for being so supportive throughout the whole season and for always pushing us to do, and be our best. We are going into next season with virtually the same group of girls which is very exciting! I am looking forward to continue building on our games and growing together as a team!"

GETTING THEIR FEET WET
Freshmen Mia Totah and Raquel Pareja each saw action this season. Both played one match for the Anteaters at the No. 6 position.

RETURNING DEPTH
UCI will return all but one player to next year's roster. Arianna Tilbury will be the only Anteater lost to graduation. UCI's returning talent includes Schlatter who tied for the best singles record at 3-6 overall and Dasee Carter who went 2-4 on the season.

Tsukiji, who played all season at the No. 1 spot, will also return for her final season in 2021-22.

"I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to have competed with my teammates despite the challenges potentially halting our season," said Alyssia Fossorier. "I am proud of how our team fought despite injuries and the Covid situation. Although, we may not have had the results we had hoped for being able to step on the court with this team is a treasure I am very thankful for. I am excited to see the potential we will have next year as we grow further as a team. Go 'Eaters!"

"This was definitely a tough season in more ways than one," said Dasee Carter. "Nevertheless, we are so fortunate to have had the opportunity to compete this year and have our whole team together. I watched every single member of our team grow so much, both on and off the court. Everyone put their all into this season, and I feel like we can carry over so much more into the next one. I am so grateful to be among the most hardworking, kind, and resilient group of people, and I'm excited to head into battle with them next year. A huge thank you to our coach, Liz, who has continually supported us and continues to always push us to reach our fullest potential. Bring on another year, the 'Eaters are ready!"