Tennis
NC Central Tennis Shines with Multiple MEAC Honors
2025-04-23

The North Carolina Central men's tennis team celebrated an outstanding season, as several players and their head coach received prestigious All-MEAC accolades. Hugo Hidalgo Vega's exceptional performance earned him a place on the First Team, while teammates Kareem Abdul Hakim and Rodrigo Alves were recognized on the Second Team. Coach D. Curtis Lawson shared the spotlight by being named Co-Coach of the Year in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.

Hugo Hidalgo Vega showcased remarkable skill and consistency throughout the year. Representing his Madrid roots, he achieved a stellar 12-4 singles record, including an impressive victory over Duke’s Pedro Rodanes, ranked 38th nationally. This triumph propelled Hidalgo Vega to secure his own ranking at 111th in the nation, making history for NCCU. Meanwhile, Rodrigo Alves made his mark in his inaugural season at NC Central, posting a solid 9-9 singles record. His standout performances extended beyond conference matches, such as defeating Davidson, and he paired effectively with Hidalgo Vega in doubles, achieving a commendable 10-4 record within the MEAC.

Kareem Abdul Hakim, hailing from Jakarta, continued his legacy with another appearance on the All-MEAC Second Team. The junior excelled both individually and in doubles play, finishing the regular season with a strong 10-7 singles record and earning Player of the Week honors twice. Partnering with Oliver Saarinen, Abdul Hakim contributed significantly to the team’s success in doubles, maintaining an undefeated streak against MEAC opponents. Under the guidance of veteran coach D. Curtis Lawson, who boasts a quarter-century of leadership, the Eagles secured their best-ever Division I finish in the MEAC, setting them up for a promising run in the upcoming championships.

With these achievements, it is evident that dedication, teamwork, and perseverance are the cornerstones of NC Central's success. As they prepare for the postseason, their journey exemplifies how commitment and hard work can elevate individuals and teams alike, inspiring others to pursue excellence in all endeavors.

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