Berlin High School's number one singles player, Eva Rybka, has committed to play college tennis at the University of New Haven in the fall.
Rybka, who helped the Berlin High School girl's tennis team to a historically successful season last year, will play for first-year coach Jeff Bricker. The Chargers could use Rybka, as the team is off to an 0-7 start this season.
Berlin advanced to the semifinals of the state tournament last season and won the most matches in the history of the program. The Redcoats lost 5-2 to top-ranked Avon in the semis.
"They gave her a great academic and athletic package and I know she is thrilled with the idea of playing there," Berlin coach Diane Cleary said. "She enjoyed the campus and when they offered I know she was very happy."
Rybka joins former Redcoats Alyssa Hayes at Bentley, Kristin Leganza at Sacred Heart and April Regan at St. Anselm as BHS alums playing college tennis.
"She really pushed us to another level last year when she came," Cleary said of Rybka, who transferred to Berlin High from Georgia. "This spring we have six of the returning 10 starters back from last year so we're excited to have so many players with experience back. We are looking for some younger girls to move up and fill in so you're never sure exactly how it will shake out."
Cleary said she is allowing Rybka to set her own team and personal goals this season with a little guidance.
"I hate to put any more pressure on her than she puts on herself," Cleary said. "We'd love to see her be number one in the conference and make it to at least the third round of the states. She made it to the second round last year but she has worked so hard. She is a great talent and has great capabilities."
