On The Rise features compelling stories and unique voices in women’s college tennis. Our conversations focus on topics such as self-care, team culture and personal goals. On The Rise is more than tennis; it is the next generation of women in sports.
Episode 44: Sara O'Leary
Sara O'Leary is on the rise. The UVA women's tennis head coach shares her story coaching 2021 NCAA Singles Champion Emma Navarro, who is now ranked No. 13 in the world.
Posted on 19 August 2024
Episode 43: Lulu Sun
Lulu Sun is on the rise. The Texas alum shares her story becoming the first woman from New Zealand to reach the Wimbledon quarterfinals in the Open Era.
Posted on 1 August 2024
Episode 42: Alexa Noel
Alexa Noel is on the rise. The Miami redshirt junior shares her story winning the 2024 NCAA Individual title and earning a wild card into the upcoming US Open.
Posted on 30 July 2024
Episode 41: Kara Hall
Kara Hall is on the rise. The Michigan alum shares her story becoming the stunt double for Zendaya in the 2024 film Challengers.
Posted on 18 June 2024
Episode 40: Jennifer Kerr and Melissa Sakar
Jennifer Kerr and Melissa Sakar are on the rise. The Washington tennis alums share their story transferring from Ivy League to Pac-12 programs and finding success in both conferences.
Posted on 15 May 2024
Episode 39: Angella Okutoyi
Angella Okutoyi is on the rise. The Auburn sophomore shares her story becoming the first player from Kenya in nearly 50 years to win the African Games.
Posted on 25 April 2024
Episode 38: Mira Ruder-Hook
Mira Ruder-Hook is on the rise. The 2016 All-American shares her story earning a Top 10 national doubles ranking for Michigan. Now, Mira is creating a new venture to support former college athletes.
Posted on 15 April 2024
Episode 37: Donatella Guarnieri
Donatella Guarnieri is on the rise. After playing for the UCF club tennis team, Donatella was called up to the varsity roster midway through the 2024 season. One week later, she earned her first Big 12 doubles victory over #7 Texas.
Posted on 1 April 2024
Episode 36: Anna Danilina
Anna Danilina is on the rise. The University of Florida alum shares her story becoming the first Kazakh player in the Open Era to win a mixed doubles major title.
Posted on 12 January 2024
Episode 35: Grace Melrose
Grace Melrose is on the rise. The former pro player shares her story founding Tennis Girl Nation before returning to the tour, this time as a published author.