Initial rankings for the 2010 women’s tennis season have been released by the ITA and Long Beach State climbed up one spot from their 2009 finish to begin the year ranked No. 50 overall.

Sophomore Rachel Manasse and freshman Jaklin Alawi also made their first appearance in the rankings. The duo starts the year ranked No. 58 in doubles after posting a perfect 4-0 record in fall play, including winning the Fullerton Invitational doubles championship.

The 49ers have been finished in the rankings for the last nine seasons, and over that time have won seven Big West Championships, including six consecutively including last season’s Big West title.

Long Beach State resumes practice next week, and begins the 2010 team campaign on the road on January 21 at No. 9 USC. 

Reports From LBSU