AUBURN, Ala. – Former UCF tennis standout Valeriya Zeleva joins the Auburn coaching staff as an assistant coach, head coach Caroline Lilley announced on Monday.
"Valeriya has established herself as one of the best in the world every step of her career," said Lilley. "As an elite junior, collegiate and professional player, she brings invaluable experience and knowledge to our program. Her humility makes her relatable and her passion is a catalyst for the growth of those around her.
"We are humbled that she has chosen to join the Auburn family, and grateful to the administration for supporting us in bringing in one of the most promising coaching minds in our sport. Valeriya's work ethic aligns perfectly with our culture of development and the moral compass we lead with as a staff."
The most decorated women's tennis player in UCF program history, Zeleva was named American Athletic Conference Player of the Year in both 2019 and 2021. She was a two-time participant in the NCAA Singles Championships as well as a selection for the NCAA Doubles Championships. During her time with the Knights, Zeleva reached career-high rankings of 7th in doubles and 17th in singles from the Intercollegiate Tennis Association after being ranked as high as 28th worldwide in ITF Juniors prior to coming to UCF.
Following her collegiate career, Zeleva picked up extensive experience in professional tennis and earned Women's Tennis Association rankings of 539th in singles and 664th in doubles.
"I am sincerely excited and grateful for the opportunity to join Auburn University's coaching team alongside esteemed coaches Caroline Lilley and Megan Falcon," said Zeleva. "Being part of a program with a rich legacy and an engaged community is truly an honor. I look forward to stepping onto the tennis court with our talented team, guiding our athletes toward their highest potential."
Zeleva is a native of Moscow, Russia and joins the Tigers' coaching staff from Gorin Tennis Academy in Granite Bay, California.