Christy Rankin Tennis Lobby Dedication Event Cements Legacy of Former Razorback Star
On the eve of the 2018 University of Arkansas Homecoming celebration, it was all smiles and celebration at the Dills Indoor Tennis Center, as Razorback friends, fans, coaches and student-athletes joined with members of former Razorback student-athlete Christy Rankin’s family to celebrate the dedication of the Christy Rankin Tennis Lobby.
“I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Christy, however, her spirit and love of tennis was evident in the stories I heard from her family, as well as what she accomplished in her lifetime,” said Vice Chancellor and Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek.
Born in Jonesboro, Christy was a four-year letter winner for the Razorback Tennis Team and a member of Phi Mu Sorority while at the University of Arkansas. She also earned the title of Arkansas Overall Tennis Champion and was named All-State and All-American during her high school career at Jonesboro High School.
Following her playing days, Christy spent her career teaching and coaching nationally and internationally until she passed away unexpectedly in 2010.
The naming was made possible by Kim and Chris Fowler, close friends of the Rankin family and supporters of Razorback Athletics.
“Christy and the entire Rankin family have been dear friends for years, and it was always exciting to watch Christy on the court throughout her career,” said Chris Fowler. “We wanted to do something to remember her and her legacy, and we hope that with the naming of the lobby, Razorback student-athletes, coaches and fans will embody her spirit and competitiveness that will live on for generations to come through the tennis program.”
“The ongoing investment in our student-athletes and programs across the athletic department continues to support our vision To Be The Best and provides our coaches with the ability to recruit and compete on a national level,” Yurachek continued.
Story from http://www.razorbackfoundation.com/news.aspx Page 3, OCTOBER 29, 2018