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University of Massachusets Athletics
Dixon Named A-10 Coach Of The Year
April 28, 2003 | Tennis
April 28, 2003
AMHERST, Mass. - Three members of the University of Massachusetts women's tennis team received Atlantic 10 honors on Monday. Head Coach Judy Dixon was named the A-10 Coach of the Year while junior Jafra Depontes (Kaliua-Kona, Hawaii) and sophomore Stephanie Price (Columbia, Mo.) were selected to the Atlantic 10 Women's Tennis All-Conference Team.
Dixon received the coaching honor after leading the fourth-seeded Minutewomen to the championship of the Atlantic 10 Tournament on April 19. For the year, UMass posted a 9-13 overall record, going 3-1 against conference opponents before advancing to the championship round of the A-10 tournament.
"I wouldn't have been voted Coach of the Year if the team didn't perform well," said Dixon. "One of the nicest rewards I've received is Coach of the Year. It's not just about me, it's a reflection on the team, and I of course share this with (assistant coach) Celeste (Frey)."
This is the third time Dixon has received the conference's Coach of the Year honors. She previously won the award in 1998 and 2001.
Also receiving conference honors on Monday were Depontes and Price. While playing together at No. 1 doubles the duo posted an 11-5 record. In singles play Price went 18-11 for the year while playing at No. 1 and No. 2 singles.
"Stephanie (Price) had a terrific year," said Dixon. "She has an excellent record and she had some outstanding wins against big-time teams. She preformed under pressure very well all year."
Depontes, who sat out the fall portion of the schedule due to an injury, posted a 7-6 record at No. 1, No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4 singles in the spring.
"Jafra came from playing no tennis April to January after having surgery and put herself in a position where she can play," said Dixon. "She is one of the most talented players we have ever had."
Temple's Danira Penic was named the Most Outstanding Performer of the Year while her teammate, Mia Marovic, was named the Most Outstanding Rookie Performer.