Mirko Bjelica Head Coach | Western Illinois University Leathernecks Website
Mirko Bjelica Head Coach | Western Illinois University Leathernecks Website
Western Illinois University's women's tennis team is set to welcome three new players for the upcoming fall season. Coach Luke Ogren announced that Chloe Routier, Gabriela Miteva, and Nadezhda Dimitrova Petkova have officially signed with the Leathernecks. These additions follow the earlier signings of Rebecca Jouzy, Richardlyne Francois, and Denver Johnson in February.
Chloe Routier hails from Sainte-Julie, Québec, Canada. She previously attended École secondaire De Mortagne and achieved a national ranking of 109. "I chose Western for the academic program and the tennis team had the characteristics I was looking for," Routier stated.
Gabriela Miteva comes from Sofia, Bulgaria. Her past achievements include winning first place at both National Team Championship 18yo and Women's categories. Reflecting on her influences, she said: "My father has been the cornerstone of my sports career... His influence transcends the court."
Nadezhda Dimitrova Petkova also joins from Sofia, Bulgaria. Her notable accomplishments include first-place finishes at the Stara Zagora Cup in singles and doubles events. She remarked on her decision to join Western Illinois: "I chose western because academically it's great... Surely it is a benefit for both of us in many aspects."
These players are expected to strengthen the Leathernecks as they prepare for their next competitive season.