The Horizon League has unveiled its preseason tennis polls, forecasting an intriguing season ahead for both the men’s and women’s teams. With notable additions and returning players, the IU Indy Jaguars are set to make a strong push in the upcoming spring season.

Prepare for an Unforgettable Tennis Season with Fresh Talent and Veteran Strength

Men's Tennis: A Competitive North Division

The men’s tennis team at IU Indy is poised to compete fiercely in the Horizon League’s North Division this year. The preseason poll places them third, behind Cleveland State, which secured the top spot. Last season, under the leadership of Head Coach Bren Vasalakis, the team finished with a 9-16 record, including a respectable 3-5 within the league. This performance underscores the team's resilience and determination.Vasalakis has bolstered the roster with four promising freshmen—Jai Dutta from Coppell, Texas; Konner Gunwall from Victoria, Minnesota; Vincent Nauta from Bradenton, Florida; and Pumiphat Sukkho from Thailand. These newcomers bring fresh perspectives and energy to the squad. Returning players like Kamil Kozerski, Eli Mercer, Noah Viste, Will Thurin, Steven Paz, and Nate Day will provide stability and experience. The blend of youth and seasoned talent positions IU Indy as a formidable competitor in the North Division.

Women's Tennis: Renewed Momentum with New Faces

On the women’s side, the Jaguars are anticipated to finish sixth in the preseason rankings. Despite this prediction, the team, led by Head Coach Pawel Gajdzik, aims to exceed expectations. Last season, they concluded with an 8-12 record, demonstrating their potential for growth.Gajdzik has introduced two new members to the squad: freshman Hanan Awale and junior Calli Sokolowski. Their addition, combined with the return of Elle Kotre, Chloe Bailey, Grace Lampman, Emma Dell, and Sofia Castillo, injects a renewed sense of vigor into the team. The synergy between these players could propel the Jaguars to achieve better results than forecasted.

Season Kickoff: Setting the Stage for Success

The men’s team will launch their spring campaign on January 18, hosting Northern Illinois at 3:00 PM. This match offers an early opportunity to gauge the team's progress and chemistry. Fans can expect to see a balanced mix of aggressive play and strategic finesse.Meanwhile, the women’s team will begin their season on January 25 against Western Illinois at 5:00 PM. The opening match will be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the season. Both teams are eager to showcase their skills and prove their mettle in the competitive Horizon League environment.

Building on Past Achievements

Looking back at the previous season provides valuable insights into the areas where improvements can be made. For the men’s team, refining their game strategy and enhancing teamwork will be key. The women’s team must focus on consistency and building confidence through solid performances.Both squads have been working diligently during the offseason, honing their skills and preparing for the challenges ahead. The support from coaches Vasalakis and Gajdzik has been instrumental in fostering a positive and ambitious team culture. As the season approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting and competitive year for IU Indy tennis.