BUFFALO, NY - The University at Buffalo women's tennis squad presented its team awards for the 2001-02 season at the annual Athletic Awards Banquet held on April 28 at Samuel's Grande Manor.

Michaela Kollarova

Head coach Kathy Twist made the following presentations: Michaela Kollarova (Slovak Republic/Bratislava) was selected as the Top Newcomer; Jennifer Wong (Penfield, NY/Penfield) earned the Most Improved Player Award; Shani Amarasinghe (Patchogue, NY/Patchogue-Medford) received the Coach's Award; and Karen Maynard (Poughkeepsie, NY/Spackenkill) was named the team's Most Valuable Player.

The Top Newcomer Award is presented to the individual student-athlete who distinguishes herself as the most talented new player on the team or the individual who accomplishes the greatest achievements as a first-year player. Kollarova finished the year with a 5-17 overall record, playing mostly second singles. Kollarova won the New York State Championship at second singles at the competition in Binghamton. She went 4-0 in the two-day tournament without losing a set.

Jen Wong

The Most Improved Player Award is presented to the student-athlete who has made the greatest stride or improvement in her performance from the previous season or from the beginning of the season to the end of the season. Wong compiled a 2-18 overall singles record, playing mostly at fourth singles and taking her first win in the fall season over Canisius' Miranda Gasbarro, 6-3, 6-1.

Shani Amarasinghe

The Coach's Award is selected by the head coach and is given to the student-athlete who best exemplifies the team virtues as defined by the head coach. The recipient is one who stands out in dedication, commitment, unselfishness and enthusiasm towards helping the team improve. For the second year in a row, Amarasinghe was selected for this honor. She turned in solid performances at third singles for the Bulls throughout the season while also serving as team co-captain.

Karen Maynard

The Most Valuable Player Award is given to the student-athlete who makes the most significant contribution to the accomplishments of the team through her skills and leadership. Maynard was Buffalo's top singles player this past season, posting a 2-19 overall record at first singles. She is also a two-time recipient of this award.

The Bulls completed their season with a 2-16 overall record and an 0-9 Mid-American Conference record.