Rachel Stuhlmann is not your typical tennis player.
The 21-year-old from San Diego has been playing the sport since she was four years old, but only started taking it seriously in the last few years.
And while most professional players focus exclusively on singles, Stuhlmann has carved out a niche for herself as a doubles specialist.
"I love the strategy and the teamwork that's involved in doubles," she says.
"It's such a unique and different game than singles, and I really enjoy that challenge."
Stuhlmann's unique approach to the sport has paid off. She's currently ranked No. 1 in the nation in women's collegiate doubles.
She was recently named the Intercollegiate Tennis Association's Player of the Year.
"It's a huge honor," she says of the award. "I'm just so grateful to have been able to have the success that I've had."
Stuhlmann's successful career has not come without its challenges.
However. In addition to the grueling travel schedule and demanding practice regimen that all professional athletes face.
She's also had to deal with the extra pressure of living up to her family's legacy in the sport.
Stuhlmann's father, Rick, was a world-ranked player in the 1970s, and her uncle, John, is a member of the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
But instead of letting the pressure get to her, Stuhlmann has used it as motivation to succeed.