Hawkins, Aleck Win Tennis Team Awards

KALAMAZOO, Mich. - It was announced today that Kathleen Hawkins and Caroline Aleck of the Western Michigan women's tennis team were voted the recipients of the team's yearly awards, the Amy Yeast Most Valuable Player Award and the Unsung Hero Award.

Hawkins was voted the 2011-12 Amy Yeast Team MVP, which is an award given annually to the player who has demonstrated the most dedication, hard work, sportsmanship, and teamwork. Named for WMU Hall of Famer Amy Yeast, the award is voted on by the members of the team. Hawkins led the Broncos this year in singles wins with a 20-14 record, as well as in doubles victories with a 27-12 record, for an overall mark of 47-26.

Hawkins was named to the Mid-American Conference All-Tournament team for her role in helping the Broncos reach the semifinals of the tournament, winning both of her matches against Buffalo to push the Broncos to a 4-3 win.

"I am so extremely proud of Kathleen. She has overcome tremendous adversity to win this award," said WMU head women's tennis coach Betsy Kuhle. "She is extremely deserving and exhibits all the qualities that Amy Yeast brought as a tennis player."

Aleck ranks as the first ever recipient of the Unsung Hero Award, an award given to the player who made significant contributions to the success of the team that may otherwise go unrecognized. Aleck was tied for second on the team with a singles record of 19-11, including an impressive 15-5 record in dual match play. Aleck was a stalwart in the doubles line-up, ranking just behind Hawkins with a 22-15 doubles record; her 41 total wins ranked second on the team.

"Caroline made an incredible contribution to the success of our team," said Kuhle. Since joining the singles line-up she was an incredible 15-5. She also went 17-10 in doubles playing in all three positions. She is most deserving of the first WMU Women's Tennis Unsung Hero Award."