Purizaca Named ITA All-American

CRETE, Neb. – Doane University women's tennis standout Maria Purizaca has added another historic achievement to her remarkable collegiate career, becoming the first player in program history to earn Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) All-America honors.

The ITA announced its 2025-26 NAIA Women's Tennis All-Americans, recognizing student-athletes who finished among the top 20 players in the final ITA National Singles Rankings. Purizaca was one of only 20 players nationally selected for the honor after closing the season ranked No. 8 in the nation.

The distinction adds to an already historic season for the Tiger junior, who established herself as one of the premier players in NAIA women's tennis. Purizaca compiled a 31-2 overall singles record between tournament and dual competition and became the first player in Doane tennis history to complete an undefeated dual season, posting a perfect 20-0 record in team matches.

Throughout the season, Purizaca consistently excelled against the nation's top competition. She posted a 6-2 record against fellow 2026 NAIA All-Americans and climbed as high as No. 5 in the ITA Collegiate NAIA Singles Rankings before finishing the year eighth nationally.

Her ITA All-America recognition is the latest milestone in a decorated career that has already rewritten the Doane record book. Earlier this spring, Purizaca earned her third consecutive NAIA All-America honor after being named to the NAIA Second Team, becoming one of the most accomplished players in program history.

Across three seasons in Crete, Purizaca has amassed a 92-8 career singles record while helping elevate the Tigers onto the national stage. She led Doane to a final ITA team ranking of No. 44 and paired with Liz Calderon to finish the season ranked No. 26 nationally in doubles competition.

Purizaca's selection places her among an elite group of NAIA student-athletes recognized by the ITA for outstanding performance during the 2025-26 season and further solidifies her legacy as one of the greatest players to compete for Doane women's tennis.

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