Wednesday, April 2, 1997
W. TENNIS:Freshman’s work ethic, passion for sport result in
10-1 record
By Christie DeBeau
Daily Bruin Contributor
She was born in Russia, lived in England and now attends school
at UCLA. But, what has remained constant in Katia Roubanova’s life
is tennis.
Roubanova joined the UCLA women’s tennis team this winter
quarter. As a freshman, Roubanova has already amassed a 10-1
overall record for the Bruins.
"We were very lucky to get her in January," UCLA head coach
Stella Sampras said. "We needed someone and she is fitting in that
role perfectly."
While Roubanova helps the team with her wins, she is a player
who adds much more than victories to the team. Roubanova is
enthusiastic about being a team player and shows tremendous support
for her teammates.
"She has added a lot of personality to the team," Sampras said.
"She is feisty and is really into the team  a real team
player … she has definitely helped with team spirit and
camaraderie."
When Roubanova enters a match, she realizes that she is playing
for her team; her victories are just as much for the Bruins as they
are for herself.
"We all support each other and it’s so much fun," Roubanova
said. "It’s tough because when you play you have to win for your
team. But, it just makes me better, a stronger person."
Team membership is not something that Roubanova is used to, but
she has quickly come to embrace the experience.
"I love playing and I love winning, especially the team
matches," Roubanova said. "It’s so much fun watching your
teammates. I never really had that at home. I was just playing
junior tournaments and you play for yourself. But now it is really
intense and I enjoy it."
Roubanova takes pleasure in a victory, and especially enjoys the
close games. When she is far behind in a match, she never gives
up.
"I really like coming back from behind and winning," Roubanova
said. "Last year, there were a couple of matches where I was just
winning from behind all the time. It is nice because it gives you
confidence. Even if you are losing you still think you are going to
win, you have a belief in yourself. Whenever you win it is nice. It
means your work is paying off."
Roubanova’s passion for tennis has been with her throughout her
life and continues to play a large role everyday.
"Both my parents were tennis players so it kind of runs in the
family," Roubanova said. "I started playing when I was 7, but I had
a racket before I was born. I find it hard to imagine my life
without it. If I did not play everyday it would be weird."