LA MIRADA--- The Biola Women's Tennis team welcomes two newcomers, Julia Vartuli and Charlie Croteau. Senior Vartuli and redshirt sophomore Croteau join a returning roster of five for the 2023 season.

"I'm very excited about the newcomers," stated head coach David Goodman. "They bring a competitive attitude and a strong set of skills that will add to our team. I can't wait to see them compete for us for the next few years."

Vartuli has attended Biola for the past three years and joins the women's tennis team as a senior. Vartuli is a Colorado native who graduated from Arapahoe High School in 2019. While at Arapahoe, she played on the tennis team for four years and at one point of her career ranked No. 10 in the State and received the Warrior Award and Captain's Award. 

"Julia is joining us this semester and we're excited to have her on the team," said Goodman. "She has a great attitude and is driven to improve. She is the only lefty on the team which is always an asset."

Vartuli also has family ties to the Biola tennis program. Her brother, Michael Vartuli, played for men's tennis team from 2015-18.

Croteau is the final newcomer who joins the Eagles from Jacksonville State University. She played one year for Jacksonville State where she made program history by setting the new doubles record of 12-3.

Croteau is originally from Quebec and graduated from Academie Les Estacades in 2020 where she had the best grade point average in Grade 10.

"Charlie is one of the most competitive girls I've worked with," reflected Goodman. "I love the intensity she brings to the court each day. She is a very strong player and has an amazing serve."

Biola opens up the season with an exhibition match at the Biola Tennis Center. The Eagles are set to play Westcliff tomorrow Friday, Jan. 20 at 2 p.m. Their first countable game of the season is Monday, Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. against Cal State LA.