Hickory, N.C. – Lenoir-Rhyne University Head Women's Tennis Coach Tom Rees announced the signing of two student-athletes – Alexandra Garofoli and Spencer Cochran – for the 2018-19 campaign.

Garofoli, a native of Springboro, Ohio, is ranked No. 12 in the state of Ohio for U18.  Garofoli's accolades include two greater Western Ohio Conference Singles Championships and one Greater Western Ohio Doubles Title.

In addition, Garofoli is a two-time district qualifier and a sectional winner with a 2017 overall record of 26-3 in combined singles and doubles play.

"Ally (Garofoli) is ready to shine as a Lenoir-Rhyne Bear," said Rees.  "She has done it all in high school tennis and has the ability to excel at the collegiate level.  It has been a pleasure recruiting her and she already feels like part of the Lenoir-Rhyne family."

Cochran, from Charlotte, N.C., is the first player from Mallard Creek High School to qualify for the 4A State Championship.  Cochran is also the 29th-ranked player in North Carolina for U18.

Cochran was the 2014 MECKA Conference Doubles Champion, a 2015 MECKA First-Team All-Conference honoree and the 2016 MECKA Conference Player of the Year.  

"Spencer's (Cochran) passion and drive to excel on and off the court makes her a perfect fit for Lenoir-Rhyne," said Rees.  "She has a heart for service and always put the team first.  Spencer is super talented and I am looking forward to helping her develop her game at the college level."

Lenoir-Rhyne is already 2-0 on the young season after a pair of fall victories and will open the new year against UNC Asheville in an exhibition.  The match is scheduled for Saturday, February 10, in Asheville, N.C.
 

Alexandra Garofoli	Spencer Cochran