ORLANDO – The future is bright for the UCF women's tennis team, as its incoming recruiting class has been tabbed the nation's second-ranked recruiting class in the by Tennis Recruiting Net. Not only was this ranking the highest recruiting class ranking in program history, but it is also the highest in the Big 12 Conference, proving that the Knights are ready to make some waves as they ready for their inaugural season in the conference.
"I am thrilled to start this incredible journey with Gracie, Olivia and Mihaela," said Head Coach Bryan Koniecko. "Not only are they exceptional athletes with a track record of success on the tennis court, but they also embody the values and character that makes our team strong. I have no doubt that they will not only contribute to our success, but also enhance the culture of UCF tennis."
Grace Levelston, a blue-chip recruit from Vero Beach, Florida, joined the Knights this past spring, electing to use her redshirt season to get settled in the collegiate landscape. To accompany her blue-chip status, she was also rated as high as No. 2 in the nation, achieving a 10.54 UTR ranking prior to arriving in Orlando. During her time at Vero Beach High School, Levelston earned All-America status and high school doubles state honors.
Also joining the group is international signee Mihaela Tsoneva. The Gabrovo, Bulgaria, native was ranked the No. 2 junior and woman in Bulgaria and collected a win over the 12-ranked ITF junior to lead her country to become the U18 European Champions. Tsoneva has reached the semifinals in two ITF W15 tournaments and was crowned the winner of the National Winter Championships of Bulgaria.
Hailing from Windsor, Connecticut, Olivia Lincer completes the highest-ranked recruiting class in the state of Florida. A long list of accolades accompanies Lincer, including a trip to the round of 16 at Junior Wimbledon. She was ranked as the No. 5 recruit in the U.S., but also represents Poland on the professional stage, reaching ranks as high as No. 1 in the Junior category and No. 8 in the women's category. Her pre-college career showcases ITF wins over three former All-Americans and a finals visit at the W15 event in Guatemala in November 2021.
"Coach Lloyd [Bruce-Burgess] and I have formed a deep connection with these remarkable individuals since day one of recruiting and we couldn't be prouder to have them representing UCF," Koniecko continued. "Together, we will continue to raise the bar and make our mark on the national stage."