‘The full package’: Maria Paula Ramos Garcia does it all for USU Women’s Tennis

When Maria Paula Ramos Garcia stepped onto the courts in Logan for her first semester last spring, she wasn’t just a new face on the Utah State University Women’s Tennis roster — she was a national champion carrying the weight of high expectations and the challenge of a mid-year transition. 

Ramos Garcia, a 19-year-old sophomore from Guatemala, arrived in Logan during the spring semester in 2025, a timing she admits was unconventional.  

“I feel like it’s a little bit harder than starting fall because you don’t have these tournaments where you can meet the people that you are playing for a season,” Ramos Garcia said.​     ​ 

Despite the steep learning curve, she embraced the fresh start.  

“I like it because you’re new,” she said. “You don’t know anything about anyone. You just play, you have fun, and you do what you need to do.” 

Before joining the Aggies, Ramos Garcia was the top-ranked under-18 player in Guatemala. USU head coach Veronika Golanova said her impressive junior career and “feistiness” made her an ideal fit for the program.  

“She had the results that we were looking for, and she had the right style of play for the mountain region that we’re in,” Golanova said.​     ​ 

The transition to Logan brought unique challenges, specifically the high altitude and indoor playing conditions.   

“The ball is way faster than I’m used to,” Ramos Garcia said. “Back home, I don’t play indoors. Everything is outdoors because we don’t have snow. That was the biggest change that I had.”  

Despite these adjustments, Ramos Garcia has become a cornerstone of the team. Golanova praised her development, noting her consistent performance at the No. 4 singles spot and her standout success in doubles.  

“With her doubles, she’s probably our best doubles player right now. Her record is 13 and three, which doesn’t suck. It’s very good,” Golanova said.   

The coach attributed this success to Ramos Garcia’s commitment both on and off the court.  

“She’s one of those players who is very committed to her own development,” Golanova said. “She puts a lot of time not just on the court but off the court as well. She’s like a full package.” 

For Ramos Garcia, her playing style is defined by a refusal to back down.  

“I’m really consistent. If I want something, I go for it. I don’t give up,” Ramos Garcia said. “I run for every ball. I fight. I find solutions. Just be yourself — give everything on the court.”​     ​ 

While the distance from her family in Guatemala is difficult, Ramos Garcia stays connected through technology.  

“They always watch my matches through livestream or, if not, live score. The distance is harder, of course,” Ramos Garcia said. “But having a team that supports you — it’s the best thing.” ​     ​ 

Off the court, Ramos Garcia has found a sense of home in Logan through her teammates and the local community. Golanova described Ramos Garcia as a “perfect fit” for the team culture. 

“Super sweet, very outgoing,” Golanova said. “She’s one of those players that we’re building the program around.” 

As the season progresses, Ramos Garcia remains focused on the team’s collective success.  

“I’m really proud of the team this year. We’re doing amazing, and I’m excited for the next matches,” Ramos Garcia said.