SKILLMAN, N.J. --- Tusculum College's Kealee Heffner has been named 2016 recipient of the NCAA Division II Southeast Region Most Improved Player Award as selected by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA).

Heffner, a native of Cumming, Georgia, posted an 11-8 overall record for the Pioneers, including 6-5 in South Atlantic Conference playing at the top flight in singles. For her efforts, she garnered All-SAC first team accolades for a second straight season.

She posted a straight-set win over two-time SAC Player of the Year Carlotta Nassi of Queens, one of 10 victories that cane in straight sets for Heffner. In her three seasons with the Pioneers, she compiled a 46-14 record in singles, including 23-12 mark at the top of the lineup.

Heffner and teammate Erin Mills were also named to the All-SAC second team in doubles following a regular season in which they went 17-4 overall, including 13-1 at No. 2 doubles. The duo finished 10-1 in conference matches and enjoyed an 11-match winning streak through the middle part of the schedule.

Heffner graduated from Tusculum earlier this month with a degree in business. She was also a member of the Tusculum Athletic Director's Honor Roll.

- TC -