Nov. 17, 2004
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Santa Clara University head women's tennis coach Damon Coupe signed two players to National Letters of Intent during the early signing period that began last Wednesday. The first-year head coach secured the services of Stephanie Galainena of Burr Ridge, Ill., and Samantha Georgino of Bakersfield.
"Both of these players will begin a solid foundation for the future of this program; they both exemplify the qualities of hard work, desire, and commitment I look in for in players. I really focused on bringing in players that have the confidence to lay it on the line when it counts." Coupe said.
Galainena is from Hinsdale South High School, and jumped up 200 spots in the national rankings from 2003. She is on the Dean's List and Honor Roll, and is also a "Voice of Democracy" finalist.
"Stephanie will bring a highly competitive attitude and tremendous work ethic to our program," Coupe said. "She possesses a big game that will only improve during her college career. She has the type of attitude I look for in a player and I have no doubt that she will be a solid addition to our team."
Galainena, ranked as high as 76th nationally, was recruited by many of the top programs, including Michigan, Wisconsin, Notre Dame, Boston College and William & Mary, before deciding to attend Santa Clara. Her interest is to study business on the mission campus.
Georgino is from Bakersfield High School, where she has won two Valley Singles Championships and was a part of the Central Sectionals Champion as a freshman and sophomore. Twice named Player of the Year, Georgino was also honored as the 2003 USTA Most Improved for Southern California. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and Who's Who Among High School Students.
"Samantha has an unbelievable attitude, as is extremely nice off the court and can put on a game face to be a fierce competitor on the court" Coupe added. "She has the talent to play at an extremely high level in collegiate tennis. Her commitment to fitness and intensity in practice will lead to much success in the future."
Georgino, ranked as high as 28th in Southern California and in the top-125 nationally, has an aggressive style of play and an unwillingness to give up, which caught the attention of many coaches. A top prospect for many nationally-ranked schools, Georgino has plans of becoming a doctor after graduating from Santa Clara.
Santa Clara will open the 2005 dual season in San Luis Obispo in January. Santa Clara will take on Cal State Fullerton on Jan. 16 at 9:30 a.m. and follow with a Jan. 17 match against Cal Poly at 11 a.m.