New faces make up the majority of the women's tennis team this season. Among those new faces is the face of Maggie Yahner, a sophomore who is not only new to the team, but also new to Virginia as a transfer from Vanderbilt University.
She faces the challenge of adapting to an entirely new school and new training and practice programs. Yet, in the roughly two weeks since Yahner joined the team, she has already made an impact on her fellow players as well as her coaches.
"Through the first couple of weeks of practice, there are definitely things that we do differently than they [Vanderbilt] do," sophomore Amanda Rales said. "However, she's definitely focused in on how we practice and train here and she has done just fine."
After a difference of opinions with her coaches at Vanderbilt, Yahner joins the Cavaliers where she said she believes she will prove to be a much better fit.
"I was looking for a better place," Yahner said. "I wasn't necessarily looking for one academically, even though I found that, but more so for the tennis."
Yahner is expected to contribute greatly in doubles matches, where she has secured a position on the starting lineup. Even though it is a rough transition to throw a player in with a brand new partner under a new program, Yahner has shown her ability to excel in any situation. At Vanderbilt, Yahner stood at the No. 1 doubles post.
In addition to Yahner's solid doubles play, she also holds a strong offensive singles play. While many strong singles players show their strength with a backcourt strategy, Yahner shows the ability to play an all-around game, giving the team a higher offensive threat.For Vanderbilt last year, Yahner played as high as No. 3 for singles matches, though she regularly played at No. 6.
Perhaps Yahner's best characteristic is her strong work ethic. Throughout last weekend's matches against William & Mary and Richmond, she put up a tremendous fight and showed a great desire to represent the Virginia program in a positive light.
"Right away it was evident that she brings a tremendous work ethic and focus," Virginia coach Mark Guilbeau said. "I also have learned very quickly that she has an extremely strong desire to win. Overall for this team, I think she has a good understanding of the very high expectations and standards that the top universities are striving for."
Yahner not only fits in with her fellow teammates on the court -- she has also found her place with them off the court. A lot of respect comes from Yahner's intense desire to win and to contribute to the program.
"Off the court, everyone is really taking a liking to her," Rales said. "That says a lot since she's only been with us for about two weeks now, because it feels like she's been with us all year."
Yahner can be next seen in action Saturday when the women's tennis team faces Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia at 11 a.m.
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