Girls Varsity Tennis star Sarah Rahman ’17 has officially been recruited by Columbia University to play for their women’s tennis team. She was accepted early decision after being given a verbal offer in March of her junior year.

Rahman was first e-mailed by the head coach of Columbia’s women tennis team. After watching her play, the coach formally offered Rahman a spot on the team.

It is rare for a Bronx Science student to be recruited, even more so to be recruited to a prestigous NCAA Division I University like Columbia. Rahman recounts her high school career was not solely comprised of tennis. She worked tirelessly throughout her four years as a Wolverine, taking AP Courses and maintaining a 95 plus average.

Rahman has dominated the court since age six. She lead the Girls’ Varsity Tennis Team to an undefeated season and won the PSAL Singles Tournament in the 2015-2016 season. Rahman ranked among the top 50 female tennis players nationwide and received the High School All American Athlete award.

“It feels great to be recruited. I’m really excited to continue playing tennis and have a new experience,” Rahman said.

There are several stages of recruitment. Contact, the first, is the initial interaction between a college coach and the athlete. This occurs face to face, but coaches will e-mail an athlete of interest as well. The coach will eventually observe the student in game or practice during an evaluation.

If all goes well, a non-binding verbal commitment is made, which can happen at any time. The athlete agrees to play for said college before signing the National Letter of Intent.
Rahman said that senioritis has not hit too hard yet, and that she continues to work with enthusiasm on and off the court.