The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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AUGUST 2019 THE WOLVERINE 47 BY JOHN BORTON K ate Fahey rocketed to suc- cess at Michigan like Venus Williams' most scorching serve. Opponents stood in her way at their own peril. The tough-minded tennis star out of Fair Haven, N.J., didn't give anyone a fair shake or safe haven. She posted more singles victories (132) and a bet- ter winning percentage (.815) than anyone in the history of women's ten- nis at Michigan. She earned All-Big Ten honors four straight seasons, standing alone as the sport's Big Ten Athlete of the Year in 2018 and 2019. She captured three Intercollegiate Tennis Association All- America honors. Now, Fahey separates herself once again. She's The Wolverine Female Athlete of the Year at Michigan for 2018-19. Given this particular tournament field, that's a deeply satisfying match point. "It's kind of hard to wrap my head around," Fahey said. "Michigan, es- pecially, is a powerhouse not only for academics but athletics. To think about all of the female athletes com- peting at Michigan, some of the best in the country … "I was so excited even to commit to Michigan, let alone be the top female athlete. It's such an honor, especially in my last year. I couldn't have had a better experience at Michigan. To get FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR KATE FAHEY Fahey finished her career as the program's all-time leader in singles victories (132) and winning percentage (.815). PHOTO COURTESY MICHIGAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROGRAM ACE Kate Fahey Leaves Atop Michigan's Record Books