Anna Babayan, a senior from Coastal Carolina's women’s tennis team, has been honored with a place on the 2025 All-Sun Belt singles second team. Her stellar performance at the top of the lineup includes an impressive 11-2 record and a nine-match winning streak. Facing tough opponents such as Sarah Hamner and Ozlem Usla, Babayan showcased her resilience by securing pivotal victories for her team. Additionally, she excels in straight sets wins, proving her dominance in crucial matches. The Chanticleers are set to begin their postseason journey against Troy Trojans.

The Sun Belt Conference recognized several other standout players this year, including Sofia Johnson named Player of the Year, Kira Matushkina as Player to Watch, Ireland Simme as Newcomer of the Year, Loles Carbo Chova as Freshman of the Year, and Dominic Manilla as Coach of the Year. Babayan joins notable athletes like Naledi Manyube and Loles Carbo Chova on the Singles Second Team All-Conference list, further highlighting her exceptional skills.

Anna Babayan: A Dominant Force in Women's Tennis

Babayan demonstrated remarkable prowess during her final collegiate season, maintaining an enviable position atop her team's roster. With an almost flawless dual match record, she proved instrumental in securing key victories for the Chanticleers. Her ability to triumph over formidable adversaries solidified her reputation as one of the conference's leading players. This recognition reflects not only her technical skill but also her strategic acumen under pressure.

In her role anchoring the number one spot, Babayan encountered some of the most challenging competitors in college tennis. Despite facing ranked opponents like South Carolina's Sarah Hamner and Virginia Tech's Ozlem Usla, she consistently delivered decisive performances that contributed significantly to her team's success. Her nine-match win streak exemplifies her consistency and determination throughout the season. Moreover, Babayan achieved ten of her eleven victories in straight sets, showcasing both her offensive capabilities and defensive resilience.

Achievements and Recognition in the Sun Belt

The Sun Belt Conference awards highlight the achievements of various outstanding individuals within women's tennis. Among these honorees, Babayan stands out alongside others who have made significant contributions to their respective teams. Her inclusion in the All-Conference Second Team underscores her impact on the court and her influence on the sport at large. As Coastal Carolina prepares for post-season play, Babayan remains a vital asset for the Chanticleers.

This year's accolades span multiple categories, recognizing excellence across different aspects of the game. Sofia Johnson earned Player of the Year honors due to her exceptional performances, while Kira Matushkina was identified as a promising talent to watch. Newcomer Ireland Simme and Freshman Loles Carbo Chova brought fresh energy to their teams, earning them well-deserved titles. Under Coach Dominic Manilla's leadership, Old Dominion flourished, justifying his selection as Coach of the Year. Alongside Babayan, other talented players like Naledi Manyube and Maria Paredes were acknowledged for their contributions, reinforcing the competitive spirit and high standards maintained within the Sun Belt Conference.