The Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) has announced its Division II Women's Regional Award winners for 2024, with Wayne State University's women's tennis team securing three honors. Marta Komar received the Arthur Ashe Leadership & Sportsmanship Award for the Midwest Region. Malak Arafat was named the region's Most Improved Player, and the team collectively earned the ITA Community Service Award.
The ITA recognizes players, coaches, and programs each season for their achievements both on and off the court.
Komar, a redshirt junior, is a first-time recipient of the Arthur Ashe Leadership & Sportsmanship Award. This accolade is given to student-athletes who demonstrate sportsmanship, leadership, and accomplishments in academics and tennis. During the 2023-24 season, Komar achieved a dual match record of 13-6 in singles and 15-9 in doubles as she entered the NCAA Tournament Round of 16. She played primarily with Anais Ruyssen in doubles at Wayne State's No. 1 flight position.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Komar played a significant role in navigating a coaching transition from Sheila Snyder to Interim Head Coach Yahsha Moore. The team won both the GLIAC Regular-Season Championship and Tournament Championship under her leadership.
Sophomore Malak Arafat claimed the ITA Most Improved Player Award after moving from No. 3 singles last year to No. 2 this season, achieving a record of 14-6 at that position. She also maintained an unbeaten record in GLIAC play this spring.
Wayne State University accumulated 233 hours of community service during the academic year to earn the ITA Community Service Award. Their activities included assisting with events like the Detroit Tigers' Upper Deck Golf Fundraiser and supporting local organizations such as Palmer Park Tennis and Detroit Police Athletic League.
Additional awards from ITA include Wilson ITA Coach of the Year and ITA Rookie of the Year among others, with national winners to be announced on May 21.
Wayne State recently defeated Tiffin University to advance to the NCAA Championship Round of 16 for a second consecutive year.
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