Dec. 7, 2006

WACO, Texas - Attila Bucko (pronounced Boots-ko), out of Wellington, Fla., signed a National Letter of Intent (NLI) during the early signing period to attend Baylor and play tennis for head coach Matt Knoll.

Bucko, who will graduate from Central Christian Academy a semester early and will begin classes at Baylor in January, joins a program that has been to the NCAA Tennis' Final Four the past three seasons, including a NCAA championship in 2004. In addition, the Bears have won five straight Big 12 Conference championships and six of the last seven.

Bucko, a left-hander, is one of the highest ranked players in the United States Tennis Association (USTA), ranking No. 2 in Boys 18 in 2006. In addition, he has ranked as high as No. 59 on the International Tennis Federation's Boys 18 list. In addition, Bucko has played in a few ATP events and has been ranked No. 1517

As a junior player he has won numerous 18 and under singles tournaments over the past two seasons and has been highly successful in doubles as well.

"Attila is a terrific addition to our program. His work ethic and commitment to excellence are a perfect fit with our existing team. I expect him to improve quickly in this more structured environment," said Knoll.