MARTIN, Tenn. – The University of Tennessee at Martin head tennis coach Dennis Taylor has announced that Sarah Candeloro and Burcu Tari have each signed a National Letter of Intent to compete for the Skyhawks, beginning in the 2013-14 season.
Candeloro is currently finishing out her prep career at Caesar Rodney High School in Camden, Del., while Burcu is completing her high school career at Besiktas Anadolu in Istanbul, Turkey.
“Both of these girls are top quality players and, with a little experience at the college level, will be among the best in the Ohio Valley Conference,” Taylor said. “I can’t wait to see them play their first tournament next fall.”
Candeloro is the No. 1 ranked player in Delaware and ranks No. 41 in the Middle Atlantic Region. She plays for head coach Zach Taylor at Caesar Rodney and is a three-time all-conference first team selection. She helped lead the Riders to three straight conference titles (2009-11) and the 2010 Delaware state championship.
“Sarah plays an attacking, powerful style of tennis that is required in Division-I tennis,” Taylor said. “She has a big serve and a solid volley which will make her a great doubles player. She is also a very intelligent young lady carrying a 4.0 Grade Point Average through high school – this will make her a good fit for our team. She will be a great addition to our tennis program and to our university.”
A native of Istanbul, Burcu ranks as one of Turkey’s top junior players. She recently finished as a quarterfinalist in the Turkish Tennis Federation 18 Age Winter Cup singles tournament in January 2012, coming after back-to-back semifinalist finishes in the 2011 Winter Cup. Her vast international experience resulted in her being selected for the Turkey National team in both 2008 and 2010.
“Burcu has something you cannot teach and that is speed,” Taylor said. “She is also very mentally tough – which is the most important trait needed to be a successful college player. She has a very good serve which will allow her to have a positive impact on our team immediately.”