Millersville

Gail Cleveland established a legacy with the women’s tennis team by providing exceptional leadership as a three-year captain and standout player. From 1966-68, the Marauders never lost, posting three undefeated seasons and a 16-0-1 record.

Individually, she posted remarkable 20-1 career singles record. But more importantly, as a senior in 1969, she set a Millersville precedent when she became the first woman to receive the Elwood J. Finley Award as outstanding Millersville senior athlete.

Cleveland excelled off the court as well. She was honored with the 1969 Verda Fulmer Award as outstanding elementary education graduate, served as the president of the of the Delta Phi Eta Honor Society and was the president of the Millersville Women’s Varsity Club.

She earned a bachelor’s of science in education in 1969 and went on to become an elementary school teacher. Cleveland was also active in the community, as she was the community services representative for Brandywine Hospital. She continues to play competitive tennis in the United States Tennis Association sanctioned senior leagues. She currently resides in Kennett Square, Pa.