Murman familiar with top spot at the net
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WINONA, Minn. -- Even before Beth Murman arrived on the campus of Winona State University, the Fort Dodge Senior High graduate knew the pressures of playing No. 1.
Murman was regular atop the Dodger tennis lineup for four years, earning a Class 2A state doubles title and two state co-ed doubles championships along the way.
Upon joining the Warrior program, Murman found herself thrust into the same position this past season.
"I was honored to be given the opportunity to play No. 1 in both singles and doubles," Murman said. "Having played tennis at the No. 1 spot my entire high school career helped my confidence a little, but I knew this level of tennis would be completely different than high school.
"Coming in, I knew every single match would be highly competitive. I am a competitor so no matter where I was in the lineup, I knew I'd give my best effort. I learned so much playing at the highest level and gained so much knowledge about the game and myself. Playing No. 1 was a great motivator and helped me push myself everyday. I was going to have to work for it and I am proud to say that I did."
Along with her partner, Kaisey Skibba, Murman went 12-5 overall in doubles and posted a record of 8-3 in Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference play. The pair earned first team all-league honors for their efforts.
In singles, Murman was 7-10 overall and 5-6 in conference, including a 4-1 start to the season that featured a pair of three-set wins.
"Kaisey and I had a great season," Murman said. "Playing No. 1 as a freshman, I knew almost every match was going to be a grind, but I loved that. I beat some great players and learned from more, too. My overall singles record does not show my fight and grit throughout each match, but that pushes me even more to continue to work hard.
"I learned so much about myself and that's my favorite highlight."
Murman, who played multiple sports with the Dodgers, plans to continue competing in ITA events over the summer to "work on my game and continue to compete."
"I have learned so much from my first Div. II college season," she added. "Having a year of experience under my belt will only be to my advantage minimizing those nerves and unneeded pressure on myself. I've learned a lot about myself as a player and person in just one short year and can't wait to see what unfolds during the rest of my time at Winona State."
The Warriors went 9-8 overall in duals and 8-3 in the conference, including a 6-2 record at home. They scored wins over Minnesota State, Southwest Minnesota State, Minnesota-Duluth, St. Cloud, Sioux Falls, Mount Holyoke, Upper Iowa, Bemidji State and Minnesota-Crookston.
"I can't thank my coach, Heather Reilly, enough for sharing her knowledge and passion for the game with me," Murman said. "My experience at Winona State would not have been the same without her. She continues to believe in me and push me to be the best me I can be. I would also like to thank my family and friends for their continuous support and love.
"I have quite the community behind me back home and now even more in Winona."