The RoundHouse | 8/4/2022 4:15:00 PM

Stephanie Dalmacio played four seasons of tennis at Wichita State and enjoyed learning from her coaches. When she spent her fifth year as a student assistant coach, she learned that she wanted to follow in their path.
 
"The bond, the connection and being able to help (athletes) on that level is what got me," she said.
 
Dalmacio, who played for the Shockers from 2006-10, is entering her seventh season as head women's tennis coach at Bowling Green State University. She played at Wichita State for Chris Young and then Colin Foster. Courtney Steinbock, assistant coach at Wichita State from 2008-10, also shaped Dalmacio's playing style by showing her how to pair natural aggressiveness with smart strategy.
 
Those experiences started Dalmacio, from Brazil, on her career.
 
"it's the relationship with the players and how much you can help them," Dalmacio said. "You start year one with them and you're with them all the way. Seeing them throughout the years is the best feeling for a coach."
 
She considers herself a coach who leads with a steady demeanor.
 
"I'm a good observer," she said. "I'm not a loud coach. I let them do their thing. Make it fun for them. Make them as calm as possible."
 
At Wichita State: Dalmacio earned All-Missouri Valley Conference honors seven times as a Shocker. She won MVC titles at No. 1 singles in 2009 and No. 1 doubles in 2008.
 
She played on three MVC title teams and in three NCAA Tournaments. In 2010, she teamed with Delia Damaschin to qualify for the NCAA doubles and earn All-American honors.
 
Update us on your current location and life status:
 
I live in Bowling Green, Ohio. I'm the head coach for the women's tennis program at Bowling Green State University. I am entering my seventh season. 
 
What was your major at Wichita State?
 
I majored in sport management with a minor in exercise science. 
 
Why did you choose Wichita State?
 
I chose WSU because of the ambitious goals that coach Chris Young set for the future. I wanted to be a part of that history-making program. I also really enjoyed having teammates from all over the world and learned a lot about their cultures. That was one of our biggest strengths as a team.
 
Which teammate helped your adjustment to college life?
 
I think all my teammates helped me in one way or another adjusting to college in the United States. Having a good balance of international students and Americans gave me a balance on both sides.
 
Not being able to speak the language was rough in the first months, so having Torrie (Browning) and Jackie (Richey) there to explain things helped a bunch. Their understanding and empathy made me feel safe and comfortable in a culture that was very different than mine. 
 
Besides the sport you played as a Shocker, what was your favorite sport?
 
I've also played soccer and volleyball growing up in Brazil and played some intramurals whenever I could. 
 
What are your favorite memories from college athletics?
 
My favorite memory was being able to clinch the match (vs. South Carolina) in the first round of NCAA play to take us into the second round for the first time in program history in 2007. It was a special moment and an honor to have that opportunity. I'll never forget that day.
 
The best memories were also the tough times, the struggles we went through together and came out stronger because of it. 
 
What advice would you give to a person starting their athletics career in college?
 
My advice to the new generation is to give it your best in every opportunity you have. And to not expect it to be perfect, or for it to be easy. We can't evolve if we stay in our comfort zone. If you want it, get out and make it yours. 
 
What book would you recommend to current college students?
 
A book I just finished reading is "Can't Hurt Me" by David Goggins. It gives great examples of pushing your own limits. 

Paul Suellentrop covers Wichita State Athletics and the American Athletic Conference for university Strategic Communications. "Catching up" is a regular feature highlighting former Shockers. Story suggestion? Contact him at paul.suellentrop@wichita.edu.