MOBILE, Ala. – Lumi Tutunaru is one of three newcomers set to take the court for the South Alabama women's tennis team this upcoming season. Throughout the month, USAJaguars.com get to know each of the Jag newcomers.

When did you start playing tennis?
I started playing tennis when I was seven years old. My first sport was karate but my best friend started playing tennis so I followed him.

What are some accomplishments from your career before South Alabama?
I was always one of the top three players in Romania. I won an ITA Juniors tournament and the national championship in Romania three times.

What is the strongest part of your game?
My strength is my power. I am also very motivated on the court to win.

Do you have any pre-match rituals? 
I eat the same breakfast before every match. Depending on what they have, I will just make sure I eat the same thing every day of the tournament.

What was the recruitment process like?
I was transferring from VCU and I was looking for a school through the transfer portal. One of the coaches at VCU knew Jaco so he contacted me and we started talking. I really like it here!

What are your goals for the upcoming season?
First, I hope we win the conference. My personal goal is to be ranked. I also want to qualify for an NCAA tournament. 

Who is your favorite professional player and why?
Maria Sharapova is my favorite famous player because she is aggressive and I like her game because it is similar to me. Plus, I think we look alike.

For more information about South Alabama athletics, check back with www.usajaguars.com, and follow the Jaguars at www.twitter.com/WeAreSouth_JAGS. Season tickets for all Jaguar athletic events can be purchased by calling (251) 461-1USA (1872).

 Join the Baseline Club, the tennis-specific support club of the Jaguar Athletic Fund. All donations to the Baseline Club go directly to support the South Alabama men's and women's tennis programs. For more information on how you can join visit: http://jaguarathleticfund.com/baselineclub