May 13, 2008

DEKALB, Ill.-The Northern Illinois University women's tennis team handed out its awards for the 2008 season, as voted on by the players, with Nao Umemura (Kasugi-shi Achi, Japan/Kardina International) earning Most Valuable Player honors and the team's academic award.

"This just shows me the impact Nao has made. Her attitude is just amazing," NIU head coach Ryun Ferrell said. "It does not surprise me at all that she earned the academic award. She sets such a high standard for herself academically. If she can get a 110 percent on a test, she'll get a 110 percent."

Stephanie Okuma (Sao Paulo, Brazil/COC. Campinas) earned Most Improved Player accolades, while Dora Delgadillo (San Luis Potosi, Mexico/Instituto Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores) earned the Coach's Attitude award. Delgadillo has won this award two of the last three years. Lilian Asuaje (Monterrey, Mexico/American School Foundation of Monterrey) and Brooke Forsberg (Moline, Ill./Moline) were named team captains for next season.

"This is really exciting," Ferrell said. "Lilian and Brooke are leaders on and off the court. I am expecting huge things out of them."