Colorado University Athletics
Freshman Spotlight: Yukiko Ikedo Is Finding Her Place
March 05, 2026 | Tennis
BOULDER – Colorado freshman Yukiko Ikedo played in her first dual match and secured a win over Utah Tech in the Buffs 3-0 stretch at the conclusion of February. For the team, it helped to secure the 7-0 victory. For Ikedo, it was the beginning of her career as a Buff.
Hailing from Gifu, Japan, the freshman has worked hard to find her place in Colorado and has done a significant job so far as the Buffs begin dual competition.
"I adjusted faster than I expected," said Ikedo. "Since this is my second semester, I feel like I've managed it better. Even though it was a little overwhelming at first, the support system at CU has helped me a lot with both academics and athletics. There are also some Japanese restaurants and markets, which makes me happy."
Through ups and downs, Ikedo manages to make it happen both on and off the court. "We have multiple matches in a day," said Ikedo, "so it's harder to stay fully committed throughout. In addition, the players' level is also very high, so I still struggle with these challenges."
Although it has been a challenge, Ikedo currently holds eight singles, and five doubles victories this season: Including her straight-set dual win over Ilse Ortega of Utah Tech, 6-3, 6-1.
"I was happy to get my first win. I was nervous at the beginning of the match and was down in the score, but I was able to come back as the match went on. I hope to win more in the future," Ikedo said.
"Yuki is a great kid," said head coach Anthony Pham. "She works really hard, she's one of our best doubles players, and she's grown a lot this year. Her first win against Utah Tech was a big deal, not just for our team, but for her to be able to feel like she belongs."
Despite English not being her first language, Ikedo has overcome and grown through her own hard work, as well as her teammates who continue to support her through her first year.
"Even though I can't communicate well in English yet, everyone takes care of me and always helps me. Some seniors have the same major as me, so they also help me with my academics, not just tennis. I feel very comfortable being part of the team," Ikedo said.
Coach Pham also sees the potential in the young freshman. "Any team is looking for the best player they can find, but what is also important for us is if they can fit into our culture. We want kids who are going to work hard and keep improving, and she fits that to a tee. We've been really happy with her, and she will be a major player for us."
Ikedo, along with the rest of the Buffs, will open home conference competition this weekend against Kansas State and Oklahoma State. More information can be found @cubuffstennis.
Hailing from Gifu, Japan, the freshman has worked hard to find her place in Colorado and has done a significant job so far as the Buffs begin dual competition.
"I adjusted faster than I expected," said Ikedo. "Since this is my second semester, I feel like I've managed it better. Even though it was a little overwhelming at first, the support system at CU has helped me a lot with both academics and athletics. There are also some Japanese restaurants and markets, which makes me happy."
Through ups and downs, Ikedo manages to make it happen both on and off the court. "We have multiple matches in a day," said Ikedo, "so it's harder to stay fully committed throughout. In addition, the players' level is also very high, so I still struggle with these challenges."
Although it has been a challenge, Ikedo currently holds eight singles, and five doubles victories this season: Including her straight-set dual win over Ilse Ortega of Utah Tech, 6-3, 6-1.
"I was happy to get my first win. I was nervous at the beginning of the match and was down in the score, but I was able to come back as the match went on. I hope to win more in the future," Ikedo said.
"Yuki is a great kid," said head coach Anthony Pham. "She works really hard, she's one of our best doubles players, and she's grown a lot this year. Her first win against Utah Tech was a big deal, not just for our team, but for her to be able to feel like she belongs."
Despite English not being her first language, Ikedo has overcome and grown through her own hard work, as well as her teammates who continue to support her through her first year.
"Even though I can't communicate well in English yet, everyone takes care of me and always helps me. Some seniors have the same major as me, so they also help me with my academics, not just tennis. I feel very comfortable being part of the team," Ikedo said.
Coach Pham also sees the potential in the young freshman. "Any team is looking for the best player they can find, but what is also important for us is if they can fit into our culture. We want kids who are going to work hard and keep improving, and she fits that to a tee. We've been really happy with her, and she will be a major player for us."
Ikedo, along with the rest of the Buffs, will open home conference competition this weekend against Kansas State and Oklahoma State. More information can be found @cubuffstennis.
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