The James Madison University women’s tennis team has released its 2025 spring dual-match schedule, featuring a demanding lineup of 21 matches. The season will test the Dukes with six matches against Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) teams and a challenging start on the road. After an intense beginning away from home, the team will return to Hillside Courts for Sun Belt Conference play. Matches will span from January to April, culminating in the Sun Belt Championship.
A Grueling Start: Road Challenges Against Top Competition
The early part of the season presents significant challenges as the Dukes embark on an ambitious journey away from home. The team will face seven power-four conference opponents during their initial stretch, showcasing their resilience and skill. The season kicks off in mid-January with back-to-back matches against ACC giants Duke and North Carolina. Following this, the Dukes will travel to Charlottesville to compete against Virginia, continuing their tough start. The month of January also includes matches at Syracuse, while February brings encounters with Virginia Tech, Wake Forest, and Michigan State among others. This rigorous beginning sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting and competitive season.
This opening phase is designed to prepare the team for high-level competition. Facing such formidable opponents early on will help the Dukes build confidence and refine their strategies. Playing against top-tier teams like Duke, North Carolina, and Virginia not only tests their abilities but also provides valuable experience. The Dukes will need to demonstrate both physical endurance and mental toughness as they navigate through these challenging matches. Each game offers an opportunity for growth, allowing players to adapt and improve under pressure. As the team progresses through this initial gauntlet, fans can expect to see significant development in their performance and teamwork.
Homecoming and Conference Play: Building Momentum
After an intense start on the road, the Dukes will finally return to Hillside Courts for their first home matches in March. The team will host several Sun Belt Conference games, including matchups against Marshall and App State. These home games provide a much-needed boost in morale and allow the Dukes to showcase their skills in front of supportive fans. The team will also face Southern Miss, South Alabama, and rival Old Dominion in consecutive home matches, further solidifying their position within the conference.
As the season progresses, the Dukes will balance home and away games, ensuring they remain competitive throughout. Matches against Georgia State and Troy on the road will keep them sharp before returning home for three consecutive games. The regular season concludes with trips to Texas State and Louisiana, followed by Senior Day versus Georgia Southern. The final match of the regular season will take place at Coastal Carolina. The Sun Belt Championship in late April will serve as the ultimate test of the team's resilience and determination. Fans can look forward to witnessing the culmination of months of hard work and dedication as the Dukes strive for success in every match.