The Belmont University men’s tennis team has once again been chosen as the frontrunner for the Horizon League South Division title, marking their third consecutive year at the top. With a 19-match winning streak in conference play and a strong lineup of returning players, the Bruins are set to defend their championship status. Meanwhile, Cleveland State is favored to win the North Division and the overall league title. The Bruins' season kicks off with a challenging match against Tennessee and includes several high-profile non-conference games.
A Legacy of Excellence: Belmont's Unbroken Winning Streak
Since 2021, Belmont has maintained an unblemished record in conference matches, securing a remarkable 19 consecutive victories. This impressive streak includes two perfect seasons in the Horizon League, where the Bruins have not lost a single match over the past two years. Last season, they finished 5-0 in league play and advanced to the conference tournament final for the second year in a row. Despite falling short in the championship match, Belmont remains a dominant force in the South Division.
This sustained excellence can be attributed to both strategic coaching and the talent of the players. Under the guidance of head coach Jeff Cero, the team has consistently performed at its best when it matters most. Key contributors include experienced juniors Eli Mizerski and Esunge Ndumbe, along with newcomers like freshman Charlie Robin. The addition of transfer Stefan Vedovelli and freshman Esteban Ortiz promises to further strengthen the roster. As the team prepares for another competitive season, fans and analysts alike are confident that Belmont will continue its winning ways.
An Ambitious Schedule: Testing Belmont's Mettle
The Bruins face a rigorous schedule this spring, starting with a tough away game against the 13th-ranked Tennessee Volunteers. This early-season challenge sets the tone for what promises to be an intense campaign. In addition to facing Tennessee, Belmont will also take on several other formidable opponents, including Vanderbilt, Louisville, Ole Miss, DePaul, Auburn, and Memphis. These matches provide valuable opportunities for the team to gauge its readiness for the Horizon League Championship.
Home matches will begin indoors against NAIA Cumberland University before moving outdoors in March. Notable home games include contests against Lipscomb, Austin Peay, North Alabama, Southern Indiana, and Eastern Illinois. The Bruins will also travel to Tennessee State and Tennessee Tech for crucial divisional matches. The regular season culminates with the Horizon League Championship, held at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor from April 25-27. Belmont's recent success at this venue adds an extra layer of motivation as they aim to reclaim the league title.