When Silva Avakian arrived at Friends University, she was searching for something bigger than tennis. She wanted a place that felt like home—somewhere she could grow, lead, and help others do the same. She found all of that and more with the Friends University Falcon women's tennis program.

Now one of the Falcons' top competitors, Avakian has become a driving force for the team. Her journey from a Division I roster spot to a leadership role at Friends showcases her commitment to growth, teamwork, and a relentless desire to compete.

Finding the Right Fit

Avakian's path to Friends began unexpectedly. After spending time at Missouri State University, an NCAA D-I program in Springfield, Mo., she entered the transfer portal in search of a program that matched her values and aspirations. What she found at Friends was a team culture that felt personal and purposeful.

"Coach Alex (Lee) really made me feel like there was a purpose for me at Friends," Avakian said. "He stated how I could make a huge impact on the team, and I was always up for a challenge."

That challenge included stepping into prominent roles in both singles and doubles play. For Avakian, the transition wasn't just about finding a new school—it was about finding a place where she could lead and help others succeed.

Taking over the No. 1 singles and doubles spots came with pressure. Avakian admits she felt the weight early, especially after previously playing lower in the lineup at her former school. But with time and support from her coaches, she settled into the role and embraced the expectations that came with it.

"In the beginning, I was super nervous," she said. "But after the first couple of matches and some wins, it took a lot of pressure off my shoulders. My coach would sit with me through matches and support me mentally, reminding me that everyone has strengths and weaknesses—and it's about who wants it more."

That mindset has fueled her consistency on the court. She credits relentless practice and mental toughness for her success, along with the chemistry she shares with teammates in doubles play.

"Practice makes perfect, and there's always room for improvement," Avakian said. "Mentally, it was tough in the beginning, but I refuse to lose. I have that drive to always win no matter what."

Leading Through Example 

While tennis is often viewed as an individual sport, Avakian has always seen it through a team lens. For her, a personal victory doesn't mean much unless it's matched by team success.

"At the end of the day it is an individual sport, but if you win and the rest of your teammates lose, you all lose together," she said. "I wanted to make sure everybody else won as well."

That approach has helped build a culture of accountability and support within the program. Avakian's leadership extends beyond matches, as she encourages teammates to stay connected, work hard, and lift each other up—qualities that have defined her time at Friends.

"Silva leads by example every day," said Friends University head coach Alex Lee. "She brings energy and focus to every practice, and our team feeds off that."

A Lasting Impact

As she reflects on her journey, Avakian points to the people who have shaped her experience—especially her coach, who has been a constant source of guidance both on and off the court.

"Coach Alex has made a huge impact on me," she said. "I lean on him for everything. He's given me guidance, supported my dream of playing professionally, and helped me realize tennis doesn't have to be over after college."

That mentorship has inspired her next step: serving as a graduate assistant for the Friends tennis program. It's a chance to give back and help future Falcons the same way she was helped.

"I want to relay his advice to all of the other players in our program and try to make an impact in their lives the way he made an impact in mine," Avakian said.

Looking back on her time as a student-athlete at Friends, Avakian is grateful for the support she received from professors and the campus community.

"My professors were so flexible and tried to make my life as easy as possible," she said. "Having that peace of mind helped me play my best because my mind was at ease."

Her advice to future Falcons is simple: work hard, support each other, and never forget to enjoy the game.

"Play hard, work hard—every point on the court matters," Avakian said. "Have respect for your coaches and teammates, and have fun. If you're not having fun, you're not going to be successful."