Colorado University Athletics
Tennis Spotlight: Lera Alexin, the Sophomore Star
March 18, 2026 | Tennis
BOULDER – Sophomore Lera Alexin has already confirmed her talents in just two years with the Colorado Buffaloes, notching impressive records and awards for the Buffs since 2024.
As a freshman, Alexin notched 31 total wins to begin her college career, 14 in singles and 17 in doubles, the third-highest total on the team.
Alexin proved herself valuable in a starting position quickly, holding steady in the No. 5 and No. 6 positions this season and earning seven dual victories. Post-season, Alexin earned ITA Rookie of the Year, becoming the second Buff to receive the award since 2018.
Now, in her second year, she is ready to continue proving herself. "The biggest difference this year is not feeling like I'm doing everything for the first time," Alexin commented. "I know what to expect during the season and am better prepared to handle the challenges that come with the spring. It takes a lot of pressure off not having to constantly be adjusting to a new environment, and I've felt more confident on the court because of that."
Alexin has already notched more singles victories this year than last, with a 15-8 record overall, and 10-3 in dual competition.
"My experience from last year and the support from the team have helped me find a better routine this season," said Alexin. "My teammates' success and the energy they bring every time help build my confidence as well. The coaches have really helped develop my game, and they never put pressure on us to win and always bring positive energy during the matches."
Head coach Anthony Pham agrees. "She works so hard on the court," Pham said. "If you have ten of her, you're thrilled. She is very team-first, but also pushes herself both on the court and in the classroom. She is a great teammate, everyone loves her, and we're so happy she's a Buff."
Alongside Alexin in doubles this season is senior Rixt van der Werff, and together they have become a powerhouse.
"Playing with Rixt is great because we are always able to keep things lighthearted. Even when things are not going our way during the match, we can still laugh and have a good time on the court. We trust each other a lot on the court, and I think we have made each other better doubles players as we truly enjoy playing every time we are on the court together," Alexin said.
It isn't often the pair finds themselves in a negative position, as the dual season began with an eight-match win streak, and an overall record of 19-5. The pair also advanced to the ITA Regional Championship semifinals during the fall, winning four consecutive matches at the tournament.
"My goal for the rest of the year is to keep developing my game and building my confidence so that I can contribute as much as I can to the team's success," said the Lenexa, Kansas, native. "I hope that Rixt and I can continue finding our rhythm in doubles and build on the success that we've had."
Alexin and the rest of the team will continue competition this weekend at home, facing BYU and Utah. More information and live results can be found @cubuffstennis.
As a freshman, Alexin notched 31 total wins to begin her college career, 14 in singles and 17 in doubles, the third-highest total on the team.
Alexin proved herself valuable in a starting position quickly, holding steady in the No. 5 and No. 6 positions this season and earning seven dual victories. Post-season, Alexin earned ITA Rookie of the Year, becoming the second Buff to receive the award since 2018.
Now, in her second year, she is ready to continue proving herself. "The biggest difference this year is not feeling like I'm doing everything for the first time," Alexin commented. "I know what to expect during the season and am better prepared to handle the challenges that come with the spring. It takes a lot of pressure off not having to constantly be adjusting to a new environment, and I've felt more confident on the court because of that."
Alexin has already notched more singles victories this year than last, with a 15-8 record overall, and 10-3 in dual competition.
"My experience from last year and the support from the team have helped me find a better routine this season," said Alexin. "My teammates' success and the energy they bring every time help build my confidence as well. The coaches have really helped develop my game, and they never put pressure on us to win and always bring positive energy during the matches."
Head coach Anthony Pham agrees. "She works so hard on the court," Pham said. "If you have ten of her, you're thrilled. She is very team-first, but also pushes herself both on the court and in the classroom. She is a great teammate, everyone loves her, and we're so happy she's a Buff."
Alongside Alexin in doubles this season is senior Rixt van der Werff, and together they have become a powerhouse.
"Playing with Rixt is great because we are always able to keep things lighthearted. Even when things are not going our way during the match, we can still laugh and have a good time on the court. We trust each other a lot on the court, and I think we have made each other better doubles players as we truly enjoy playing every time we are on the court together," Alexin said.
It isn't often the pair finds themselves in a negative position, as the dual season began with an eight-match win streak, and an overall record of 19-5. The pair also advanced to the ITA Regional Championship semifinals during the fall, winning four consecutive matches at the tournament.
"My goal for the rest of the year is to keep developing my game and building my confidence so that I can contribute as much as I can to the team's success," said the Lenexa, Kansas, native. "I hope that Rixt and I can continue finding our rhythm in doubles and build on the success that we've had."
Alexin and the rest of the team will continue competition this weekend at home, facing BYU and Utah. More information and live results can be found @cubuffstennis.
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