University of Minnesota Athletics
Players Mentioned
Merzbacher Receives ITA Arthur Ashe Leadership & Sportsmanship Regional Honor
5/18/2019 8:15:00 PM | Tennis
Gophers senior Caitlyn Merzbacher was recognized by the ITA as one of eleven NCAA Division I regional winners for the Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award. Coming off a recent nod from the Big Ten Conference as a Sportsmanship Award honoree, Merzbacher has cemented herself as one of the most decorated Gophers both on and off the court.
"It has been an honor to even be associated with Arthur Ashe in any way, shape, or form. He has lead the way for so many tennis players and was a great leader and person on and off the court," Merzbacher said. "To be recognized among the other nominees, as well, is humbling as I have had the privilege of knowing many of them and they are unbelievable people."
Despite her success on the court, Merzbacher has made herself known for her actions off the court as both a leader and mentor in the community. With this honor, Merzbacher solidifies herself as the first Gopher to ever receive this recognition from the ITA.
"It has been a joy to have the opportunity to lead my team and help other athletes in the community and across the country find their identity and joy in Christ alone," Merzbacher added. "That's truly what my main goal has been all along. To know Christ, be like Christ, and make Him known. All of these awards award are just a product of Him and the work He is doing in my life."
Joining the list of well-decorated Gophers, Caitlyn leaves Minnesota on the all-time ranks for both singles wins in a season (28) and doubles victories in a career (67) while also being an impactful voice across the community.
"Caitlyn has represented the Gopher women's tennis program with integrity and has set an example that success is the product of hard work," head coach Catrina Thompson stated on the honor. "Arthur Ashe was a great champion and respected by all so this award is well deserved for Caitlyn."
The Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award is one of the most prestigious honors in collegiate tennis. With her regional recognition Caitlyn will be up against ten other regional winners for the national award set to be announced by the ITA on May 19, 2019.