ITA Cissie Leary Sportsmanship Award
Eryn Cayetano from the USC has been named the 2023 ITA Cissie Leary Sportsmanship Award winner.
On the court, Cayetano has been one of the top players in all of college tennis during her career at USC. She was the ITA Fall National Champion in 2022, and ranked No. 1 in singles at end of fall 2022. She has been named both a Singles and Doubles ITA All-American over her career and has played in the top three of the USC lineup her whole career.
On campus, Cayetano is incredibly involved, in the USC athletic department and in the USC community. She has been a member of the USC Leadership Group since her sophomore year. She has also been a member of SAAC since her sophomore year. She holds a leadership position in the on-campus AAPI student group and has spearheaded an AAPI affinity group in our athletic department. As a Filipino-American athlete, Cayetano has prided herself on supporting other Filipino-American athletes on our campus and providing more visibility as role-models for younger kids in this community. She runs a small non-profit that provides athletic supplies to children in the Philippines.
As a teammate, Cayetano is the leader in drive, work ethic, and sportsmanship. She has the highest character and treats all her opponents, her teammates, coaches, and support staff with respect. She notices when someone is having a hard day and brings them a coffee, writes them a note, or simply offers her time. She's constantly doing small things to lift up those around her and show care and these are so appreciated by everyone in her circle.
A Letter From Head Coach Alison Swain
Dear Eryn,
Congratulations on being the recipient of the Cissie Leary Sportsmanship Award. From the moment you stepped on the court as a Trojan, it was clear you led with your values first. You came in and did the work, and extra on top of that. There was never a complaint, always gratitude for the opportunity, even when you were coming back from injury that first year. Whether it is practice with a teammate, an individual session with a coach, or a close battle with an opponent, you always show respect to those around you.
You are someone that brings people together with your steadfast integrity and loyal friendships. More often than not, you are sharing a high five or a hug at the end of tough match because you and your opponent have a friendship that supersedes competition. I have seen you in tough situations in competition and no matter the score, no matter what is at stake competitively, you always lead with your values and give the other side the benefit of the doubt.
Eryn, you have helped shape a culture of unity and positivity on this team. Your commitment to inclusion and building community shine through in all you do on and off court. Congratulations on this recognition. I am so pleased to be your coach and proud of the way you consistently represent yourself and this program.