Winona, Minn.- Erika (Richae) Erlandson was a four-year member of the Winona State Tennis team. Erlandson earned her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education in 2010 along with a minor in Coaching. She went on to earn her master's degree, also from Winona State, in Education. Erlandson is currently a Health and Physical Education Teacher at Kasson-Mantorville Middle School.

What was your favorite sports memory during your time at WSU?
My favorite memory was traveling to Colorado for a tournament. We played a lot of tennis, grew closer together as a team, and even had time to do some sightseeing!

What would you say is your greatest athletic or academic accomplishment during your time at WSU?
It would have to be winning the NSIC conference tournament (2008).

How has your WSU athletics experience been influential throughout your life?
It allowed me to gain more knowledge of the sport and about other sports too. It has influenced me personally by growing my love for the sport of tennis and continuing to play and teach tennis to young people.

Please share any recent professional or personal accomplishments.
I am currently trying to start up an entirely new tennis program at the school district in which I teach.

What is your current occupation, and what are your career goals?
I am a physical educator and coach. I hope to coach a tennis team in my own district someday.

What advice would you give to current WSU student-athletes?
Continue to embrace change throughout your life. That's how a person grows in confidence, intelligence, and meaning in life. Change is hard, but allows for a person to come out of their comfort zone. It's great for networking and growing in your profession.

If any current Warrior student-athletes are interested in connecting with Erika Erlandson, please reach out to your SAS team advisor to get his contact information.

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