One of the most successful seasons in history for UW Women’s Tennis in 2018–19 relied on the steady play of seasoned team members, the leadership of Pac-12 Coach of the Year Robin Stephenson and the achievements of freshman Sedona Gallagher.
“I don’t like to talk about my age too much,” cautions Sedona, who graduated from her Nevada charter school early to enter the UW at just 16. “I just want to be myself and play.”
Fair enough, because she can definitely play. Coached by her police officer father, who “gave up a lot of sleep after working the night shift to work with me,” Sedona recognizes the family sacrifice that led to a coveted UW scholarship.
She posted a 23-6 singles record, a 16-4 mark in doubles and a perfect 9-0 in Pac-12 singles play. Her .850 doubles winning percentage was tied for second-best in program history.
The Huskies finished the regular season 21-4 with a program-best 8-2 mark in conference play, reaching the Pac-12 Tournament semifinals for the first time ever. The 21 wins ties the 2004 season for second-most in program history.
“This is now the standard for our team, and we are excited about the bright future ahead and understand what it takes to be at this level and beyond,” says Coach Stephenson. “I’m so proud of everyone in our program and so appreciative of the support from our department and everyone in Seattle.”
An English major, Sedona plans to propel her UW education toward a career as a professor or attorney.
“I’d never be able to come to a university like this without my scholarship,” Sedona says. “So, thank you, donors! You’re giving us this opportunity to play for such a great school while having a blast. And thank you for coming to our matches and cheering and getting to know us and letting us learn from you. Our donors rock!”
Support Women’s Tennis
You can support Washington Women’s Tennis with a team gift or by making a donation to The Competitive Edge Fund.
