IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa women’s tennis head coach Sasha Schmid announced on Monday that Jessica Matthews has signed a National Letter of Intent to join the Hawkeyes next fall.
Matthews, a native of Hertforshire, England, is the highest Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) doubles ranked teenager in Great Britain. She was the winner of the junior doubles International Tennis Federation (ITF) title in Wrexham, Great Britain. While representing Team Hertfordshire, she won the British Summer Cup Division I Ladies Championship.
“The University of Iowa is a prestigious institution, which I chose because of its world-renowned academics and athletic excellence,” Matthews said. “The thing that stood out most to me was the enthusiasm and phenomenal team spirit across each member of the team. I am thrilled to be part of the Hawkeye family and make the most of this incredible opportunity.”
Matthews competed in the main draw of the Wimbledon Junior Grand Slam. Matthews was a bronze medalist representing Team England in the World School Championships in Italy. She was team captain of the No. 1 tennis school for girls in Great Britain and captain representing the Independent Schools Tennis Association.
“It is always an exciting day when our Hawkeye Tennis family expands and today, we welcome a wonderful young woman into our program,” said Schmid. “Jessica is an absolute joy in every way and I am thrilled to coach her collegiate tennis career at Iowa. She has a love for tennis, and a deep enthusiasm for learning the game and reaching her potential on and off the tennis court. The sky is the limit for her, and we can’t wait to have her join the team.”