NASHVILLE, Tenn.– Joining the Commodores from New jersey, Vanderbilt women’s tennis welcomes freshman Marcella Cruz.
Earning a highest national ranking of 17, Cruz is a five-star recruit and holds the title of doubles champion of the USTA National Women’s Open Indoor Championship with fellow Vanderbilt standout, senior Christina Rosca.
Cruz earned a stellar juniors career before joining the Dores. In 2016 she was named All-American Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year and competed in many national tournaments, advancing to the semifinals of the PTC Clay Court Championships in Women’s Open Singles and the quarterfinals of the USTA National Level 3: The Georgia Bowl.
On why she chose Vanderbilt:
“I fell in love with the culture and the people. I found it the best place for me to learn and grow.”
Favorite aspect of Nashville:
“The kind, warm, home atmosphere.”
The thing that impresses her most about Coach Macdonald and Coach Tsoubanos:
“Their wealth of knowledge, love of the game and genuine care towards my improvement as a player and a person.”
One word to describe the way she competes:
“Relentless.”
Bucket list includes:
“Seeing and meeting all my favorite artists and sports figures.”
Favorite thing to do away from the tennis court:
“Listen to music, read, be with my friends and family.”
Best non-athletic talent:
“I can raise the mood of any room.”
Best advice she has received:
“True success is winning the battle with yourself.”
Relatives that played college sports:
“My father played college tennis at Rutgers.”
Biggest influences in her life:
“My parents and coaches.”
Advice to younger aspiring athletes:
“Be kind to those you love and those you don’t.”
Cruz will make her Commodore debut as she joins the team to compete in the Puerto Rico Classic in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on September 14.
