The California women's tennis team is sending a formidable contingent to the NCAA individual championships in Waco, Texas, with four Golden Bears set to compete in singles and doubles events. Led by veteran Jessica Alsola, the Bears are poised to add to their storied program's impressive tally of seven NCAA individual titles.

Unleashing the Golden Bear Roar: Cal's Quest for NCAA Supremacy

Veteran Alsola Leads the Charge

Jessica Alsola, a seasoned competitor, will make her third appearance at the NCAA individual championships. The senior's experience and talent will be crucial as the Bears seek to continue their legacy of excellence. Alsola's previous NCAA appearances have provided her with invaluable insights, and she will undoubtedly draw upon this knowledge to navigate the high-stakes tournament.Joining Alsola in the singles competition are fellow Bears Katja Wiersholm, Mao Mushika, and Lan Mi. Each player has earned their spot through impressive performances throughout the season, showcasing the depth and versatility of the Cal women's tennis program.

Doubles Duo Alsola and Mushika Aim for Glory

In the doubles event, Alsola and Mushika have already made their mark, reaching the semifinals of the prestigious ITA All-American Championships. Their chemistry and synergy on the court will be put to the test as they face off against the top-seeded and 15th-ranked UCLA pair of Kimmi Hance and Elise Wagle.Wiersholm, a senior, has also qualified for the NCAA Singles Championship, marking her second appearance in the prestigious tournament. Her journey to Waco was solidified with a strong performance at the ITA Conference Masters Championships, where she advanced to the semifinals before withdrawing due to illness.

Mushika and Mi Complete the Qualifying Quartet

Rounding out the Bears' contingent are Mao Mushika and Lan Mi, who earned their spots in the NCAA Singles Championship through impressive showings at the ITA Sectional Championships. Mushika, ranked 107th, defeated Pepperdine's Vivian Yang to secure her second trip to the NCAA individual championships, while Mi, ranked 80th, bested Pepperdine's Yang in a playoff match to join her teammates in Waco.These four Golden Bears represent the depth and talent of the Cal women's tennis program, which has a rich history of success at the NCAA individual championships. The Bears' quest for glory in Waco promises to be a thrilling showcase of their skill, determination, and the program's enduring legacy.

Decorated Alum Kusano Wallace Joins Coaching Staff

Adding to the excitement surrounding the Bears' NCAA campaign is the recent addition of former Cal standout Stephanie Kusano Wallace to the coaching staff. Kusano Wallace, a decorated player who led the Golden Bears to the NCAA final in 2008, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the team.As the Bears prepare to take the courts in Waco, the presence of Kusano Wallace on the sidelines will undoubtedly provide invaluable guidance and inspiration to the current crop of Golden Bears. Her return to Berkeley serves as a testament to the program's enduring legacy and its ability to nurture and develop exceptional student-athletes.

Brogan's Induction Honors Cal's Storied Tennis Tradition

The Bears' quest for NCAA glory is further bolstered by the recent induction of former head coach Jan Brogan into the ITA Women's Hall of Fame. Brogan's remarkable tenure at the helm of the Cal women's tennis program, which spanned nearly three decades, has left an indelible mark on the sport.Under Brogan's leadership, the Bears established themselves as a perennial powerhouse, earning 26 consecutive NCAA Championship appearances and 19 top-10 finishes. Her proteges, including current head coach Amanda Augustus and former player Christina Fusano Hinds, were on hand to celebrate Brogan's well-deserved induction, underscoring the enduring impact of her coaching legacy.As the Golden Bears take the courts in Waco, they do so with the weight of this rich history and tradition upon their shoulders. The opportunity to add to Cal's impressive tally of NCAA individual titles will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for the talented quartet of Alsola, Wiersholm, Mushika, and Mi.