The Marshall University Tennis team is gearing up for an exciting start to their 2025 spring season. The squad, known as the Herd, will travel to Ohio this January for two matches: one against Cleveland State on Friday and another against Youngstown State on Saturday. This early-season challenge comes as the team welcomes two new players, Nour El Ouazzani and Alina Mokrynskaya, who are set to make their debut. Last year, the Herd had a successful spring season, finishing with an impressive 18-8 record and securing the second seed at the Sun Belt Conference Tournament. With high hopes and fresh talent, the team aims to build on its previous success.

The first match will take place in Cleveland on January 17th at 2 p.m., where the Herd will face off against the Vikings. Cleveland State, ranked first in the Horizon League Preseason Poll, is a formidable opponent. The Vikings narrowly missed out on winning the Horizon League Championship last year, losing to Chicago State in the finals. Despite this setback, they remain a strong contender, and the Herd will need to be at their best to secure a victory.

The following day, the Herd travels to Youngstown for a noon match against the Penguins. Youngstown State, predicted to finish second in the Horizon League Preseason Poll, also presents a tough challenge. The Penguins were eliminated in the semifinals of the Horizon League Championship last year by eventual champions Chicago State. Both teams have shown resilience and competitiveness, making these matches crucial for the Herd's early-season momentum.

Two returning players, Aisling McGrane and Nel Van Hout, enter the season ranked tied for 107th in doubles, adding depth and experience to the lineup. Their presence will be vital as the team looks to establish itself in the competitive college tennis landscape. Fans can follow all the action through various platforms, including social media and live updates via the Marshall Athletics App.

As the Herd embarks on this new chapter, the addition of fresh talent and the return of seasoned players promise an exciting season ahead. The upcoming matches against Cleveland State and Youngstown State will serve as important tests for the team, setting the tone for what lies ahead. With determination and preparation, the Herd is ready to make a strong statement in both the Sun Belt Conference and beyond.