ITA Most Improved Senior Award
Jack Winkler from Michigan State University has been named the 2022 ITA Most Improved Senior Award Winner.
After being sidelined for over two years due to numerous health issues, Winkler's return to the courts this season was nothing short of a miracle.
Entering the season just hoping to crack a spot in the Spartan's doubles lineup, Winkler exceeded all expectations earning the No. 1 position in Michigan State's Singles lineup by the end of the season.
Earning a First Team All-Big Ten selection this season, Winkler became the first Spartan to earn All-Big Ten honors since the 2015 season.
A Letter From Head Coach: Gene Orlando
It's an incredible honor for Jack Winkler to be named ITA Most Improved Senior. Jack has a comeback story for the ages and is a true role model for all. He is a testament to never giving up and always having hope during the toughest of times. Jack was sidelined for two and a half years due to a life-threatening disease. He spent 48 days straight in a hospital, lost over 60 pounds and eventually had an emergency surgery in order to save his life.
Jack's return to the court has been nothing short of a miracle. This journey has certainly changed his perspective and purpose and both were the fuel for this unbelievable comeback. He started the season just hoping to make the lineup as a doubles partner, but as the season progressed he continued to get stronger and stronger and found a level of play that we never thought was possible. He earned our No. 1 singles position and was named First Team All-Big Ten after a successful season that included two nationally-ranked wins.
Jack Winkler is a true Spartan warrior.