Romanian-born athlete joins Costa tennis

By Casey Sublette
Staff Writer

Sophomore Paula Cenusa is a Romanian-born citizen who has developed a love for tennis and is now a student at Mira Costa. The bilingual tennis player is adapting to the school system, adjusting to life at Costa and making many new friends.

Cenusa has had a long journey from Romania to the United States. She came to America because of the greater possibilities with education and tennis.

“Living in America is just what she needs,” Paula’s mother, Mariana Cenusa, said. “It is a good way for her to develop as a tennis player and as a girl.”

Cenusa’s 6-7 record does not reflect how she has been playing. She has had a hard time transitioning from the clay surface in Romania to the hard court surface here.

“The transition has been difficult,” Cenusa said. “The ball slows down on the hard surface and is harder to get to.”

While in Romania, Cenusa had many accomplishments. She was ranked 25th in the country and was the county champion of her home area three out of four years.

“She fits in well with the team despite the cultural differences,” coach Joe Ciasulli said. “She plays very well under the circumstances.”

Preparing to come to America was not an easy task for Cenusa. In Romania, she attended a public school before transferring to the English-speaking Cambridge High School where she learned English. After two years, she transferred to one of the top academic schools in Romania before moving to America with her family.

“I’d like to get into a college for tennis,” Cenusa said. “If I don’t get in for that, I would like to for my other activities.”

Outside of tennis and adapting to her new school, Cenusa has many hobbies including acting, singing and writing poetry.

“These are my passions,” Cenusa said. “I would like to turn them into more than that. These things make up my life.”

Now in America, Cenusa’s future is in her hands and she has many opportunities. Cenusa has made new friends and is adapting to the American culture.

“I am happy to be a part of Mira Costa,” Cenusa said. “I hope I can fulfill my passions here and contribute to the team.”