HOUSTON, TX -- St. Thomas men's and women's tennis programs are set to return to the courts as spring tennis approaches and the 2026 schedule is officially in place. With a balanced slate of matches and a mix of returning experience and new talent, both programs look poised for another competitive season.
Schedule: Spring Tennis Returns
Spring play for the Celts begins early in the semester as both the men's and women's teams open the 2026 season with a mix of home and road matches. The opening portion of the schedule allows UST to settle into competition, featuring non-conference contests alongside early SCAC matchups. Home matches will give the Celts opportunities to establish rhythm on familiar courts, while road contests early in the spring provide valuable experience against regional opponents. As the season progresses, the schedule shifts toward a heavier focus on SCAC competition, with key conference matches spread across home and away dates.The balance of travel and home matches is designed to prepare both teams for the intensity of postseason play, with late-season matchups serving as an important final test before the conference tournament.
Leadership
Both the men's and women's tennis teams return strong cores as they head into the 2026 spring season, blending experienced leadership with new talent. On the women's side, the Celts are led by All-SCAC honoree Lucia Rodriguez, who returns after a standout season. She is joined by Ella Mullins, Nataly Velasco, and Adrian I., all of whom made meaningful impacts last year and provide depth and consistency across the lineup. UST also welcomes two newcomers, Mariel Herrera and Marlie McArthur, who add fresh energy as the team prepares for spring competition.
The men's team brings back the majority of its roster from last season, giving the Celts valuable continuity and experience heading into 2026. That returning group is complemented by the addition of five newcomers, creating strong internal competition and added depth. With a mix of seasoned players and new faces, the men's squad is well-positioned to navigate a challenging schedule this spring.
ith the schedule set and both teams preparing for spring competition, St. Thomas tennis enters the 2026 season with momentum, depth, and excitement. As the Celts return to the courts, the focus will be on growth, consistency, and competing at a high level throughout the spring.
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