MIAMI (June 18, 2019) – Next up in our Q&A series we introduce FIU tennis player Kamila Umarova. The Panther is coming off her first season with FIU and is one of the most consistent players on the court. 

In her first year, Umarova caught the league's attention with her ability to play and win with multiple doubles partners to make her one of the most dependable players on FIU. She was named to the First Team All-Conference Doubles Team with partner Basak Akbas. Umarova also checked in on the ITA doubles rankings two different times during the season. With Maryna Veklser, she reached a season high at No. 56 and then later ended the season with Akbas at No. 64 on the rankings list. 

Umarova earned a 13-4 record in singles and was 11-4 overall in doubles. The Umarova-Basak duo remained undefeated against conference opponents while playing in the No.1 spot. They ended the season on a two-match win streak, where they downed conference opponents UTEP and North Texas at the C-USA Championships. Described by her coaches and teammates as a true team player, Umarova is now preparing for her sophomore season at FIU, and she took time to sit down with FIUSports.com for a little back-and-forth Q&A.
 

Q: Describe your transition from Uzbekistan to Miami?
A: "The transition was not that hard for me because the climate in Miami is close to climate in Uzbekistan. A lot of sun and very high temperatures during the summer. When I came I was so happy, everything was new and interesting for me. From the first minute I felt that from now on I am part of something huge, something very special."

Q: What was your favorite moment from last season? 
A: "I have a few favorite moments, my first favorite moment last season was at the "Bedford Cup", and then later in the season at conference championships. At the tournament all the girls from our team were playing at the same time. I was playing a very hard match and I was focused on winning. A few courts over I heard Basak screaming "Let's go Paaaaaantheeeeeers!" and my first thought after that was, " Ooooh my God, I am going to do everything I can for this University, for my FIU family!". It was a moment of realization and one that brought me so much pride and joy for the opportunity I have been given to play for FIU and at this level." 

Q: What goals do you have during your time at FIU and following your FIU career? 
A: "My goal is to Improve everything I can improve and gain all the knowledge, skills and experience possible. I strive to do my best every day, every hour, every second. I truly want to leave my mark on the FIU community and especially on the tennis courts."

Q: Describe your fashion style.
A: "I like everything to be in harmony: color, style, etc. I love to combine my clothes with accessories. I am trying to follow all trends and novelty."

Q: Favorite restaurant in Miami? 
A: "I love all the restaurants next to beach. I like the view and ocean breeze."

Q: What's it like playing for Coach Katarina Petrovic?
A: "Coach Katarina is very positive and purposeful woman. She knows what she wants and how to achieve her goals. She inspires me every day through her speeches, professionalism and personal attention. I love to work with her on the court, because she feels what you need to work on and helps me to improve."

Q: If you could have a super power what would it be and why?
A: "I wish I could heal any kind of diseases, so I can help all people around the world stay healthy and together with their families as much as possible."

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