LIVINGSTON, Ala. – The University of West Alabama women's tennis standout Shaira Rivera was named the GSC Player of the Year on Wednesday.

Rivera earns the first GSC Player of the Year honor of her career, adding to an already illustrious résumé. The Mindanao, Philippines native has helped lead West Alabama back to the GSC Tournament and has the Tigers in position to return to the NCAA Tournament.

In 2026, Rivera has competed on Line One in both singles and doubles. The graduate student has compiled a 29-8 overall record, including a No. 7 national ranking in singles and a No. 2 doubles ranking alongside partner Alexa Milliam.

Rivera holds a 12-6 record in singles and an impressive 17-2 mark in doubles. She has also posted a 5-2 record against nationally ranked opponents, further proving her status as one of the best players in the country. Throughout the season, Rivera earned Line One singles victories against nationally ranked teams such as Barry, Flagler, North Georgia, Mississippi College, and Valdosta State, while also defeating Division I opponents Samford and Alabama State.

In her career, Rivera has represented the Philippines in the SEA Games and has earned All-GSC, All-Region, and All-American honors. She also finished the 2025 season as the No. 1 ranked doubles player in the country. The graduate student now adds another accolade to her résumé with the GSC Player of the Year award.