WACO, TEXAS – Former Lamar University Cardinals tennis player Linda Rupert Thomas has been named to the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame. A four-year letterwinner for the Cardinals, she competed for LU from 1969-73.
 
"This an exciting moment not only for Linda, but for the university as well," said LU Director of Athletics Jason Henderson. "Student-athletes are taught that if you put in the time and hard work you will succeed in your sport. Linda is proof of what hard work and perseverance will do. She is a huge part of the winning tradition we have here at Lamar University."
 
Thomas came to LU following a standout prep career that saw her win numerous junior titles, as well as being named to the Junior Wightman Cup team. During her time with the Cardinals, Thomas was a two-time TAIAW singles and doubles champion (1972 and 1973). She was the top-ranked singles and doubles player in the state of Texas all four seasons.
 
In her senior season, Thomas won the NCAA Doubles title with her partner Cathy Beene. Following the season, she received All-America honors for her effort on the court.
 
Following her collegiate career, Thomas went on to play professionally for seven years. In 1978, she advanced through three qualifying rounds of the Wimbledon Championship before eventually losing to Ilana Kloss in the third round, and climbed as high as 76 in the world rankings.
 
Following her playing career, Thomas was named head tennis coach at LU. She served in the position from 1977 to 1980, when she became a club pro in Houston.
 
"Linda was an incredible athlete, not only at Lamar but throughout her career," said LU women's head coach David Wong. "She set a standard for excellence that all other players who come after her try to achieve. What she has done for the sport of tennis as a whole is immeasurable."
 
Thomas has spent the past 30 years actively promoting tennis in Houston serving as tennis pro of Chancellors Racket Club, Tennis Director of the University Club and Tennis Director of the ERJCC Jewish Community Center. Additionally, Thomas is the co-founder of the Houston Wheelchair Tennis Foundation.
 
-LU CARDINALS-