Unleashing Potential: Cal Bears Set to Dominate in Hawaii
The Cal women’s tennis team is poised for a stellar start to the 2025 season, leveraging their impressive ITA rankings and past tournament successes. The squad boasts several nationally ranked players, underscoring their potential to excel in both singles and doubles play. Senior Katja Wiersholm, who secured her first All-America honor last fall, leads the charge, ranked 35th in singles. Joining her are senior Lan Mi (63rd), sophomore Mao Mushika (71st), and junior Berta Passola Folch (81st). In doubles, Mushika pairs up with senior Jessica Alsola, holding the 24th position, while Mi and Passola Folch rank 48th.
This remarkable lineup reflects the depth and versatility of the Cal team, positioning them as strong contenders in the upcoming invitational. The players' achievements in previous tournaments, particularly the NCAA Individual Championships, have set a high standard for their performances moving forward. Fans can anticipate intense matches filled with strategic play and exceptional athleticism.
Reflections on the NCAA Individual Championships
Last November, the Cal Bears made significant strides at the NCAA Individual Championships held at Baylor University. Among the standout performers was Katja Wiersholm, who reached the round of 16 in singles, marking her deepest run in the tournament. Her achievement earned her All-America status, a testament to her skill and determination. Alongside Wiersholm, three other Bears—Lan Mi, Jessica Alsola, and Mao Mushika—competed in singles, with Mi and Mushika securing first-round victories.
The Bears demonstrated resilience and prowess in their matches. Wiersholm overcame Wichita State’s Xin Tong Wang and South Carolina’s Sarah Hamner before falling to Auburn’s DJ Bennett in the round of 16. Meanwhile, Mi and Mushika faced tough competition but showcased commendable performances. In doubles, Alsola and Mushika advanced to the national tournament, adding another layer of success to the team's accomplishments. Despite being defeated by UCLA’s top-seeded pair, their participation highlighted the growing strength of the Cal doubles team.
A New Chapter Awaits: Preparing for Future Challenges
As the Cal women’s tennis team prepares for the Rainbow Wahine Spring Invitational, they carry forward the lessons and momentum from their past successes. This invitational offers a platform for the players to further hone their skills and build camaraderie. Competing against Hawaii and UCLA, the Bears will face diverse playing styles, providing valuable experience and insight into their own strategies.
The upcoming Cal Winter Invitational, set for January 10-12 in Berkeley, looms on the horizon as another critical event. This home tournament will allow the Bears to showcase their progress and continue refining their game. Fans and supporters can stay updated on the team’s journey through social media platforms such as X (@CalWomensTennis), Instagram (@CalWomensTennis), and Facebook (/CalWomensTennis).