The 2025 CUNY Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) men’s tennis season concluded with the announcement of its All-Star teams and major award winners. The distinguished accolades were determined through a voting process involving the league's head coaches, highlighting exceptional achievements both individually and collectively within the conference.
Baruch College dominated this year's honors, with Juan Mendoza earning Player of the Year recognition for his remarkable performance in singles and doubles matches. Rookie Giovanni De Santis III also made a significant impact, securing the Rookie of the Year title. Furthermore, Baruch’s head coach Gregory Wyzykowski was honored as Coach of the Year for steering his team to an undefeated regular season and tournament victory. Additionally, Lehman College's Taishawn Brownlee received the Sportsmanship Award, underscoring the values of respect and integrity upheld throughout the league.
Baruch Dominates Individual Awards
Juan Mendoza emerged as the standout player of the season, leading Baruch to both the regular-season and tournament titles. His dominance in singles play at the No. 1 position, coupled with a stellar doubles record, positioned him as a pivotal figure in Baruch’s success. Alongside teammate Juan Paredes, Mendoza showcased exceptional teamwork, contributing significantly to their championship run.
Mendoza’s journey to becoming the Player of the Year was marked by an impressive 12-1 singles record, including a perfect 5-0 in conference matchups. In doubles, he achieved a remarkable 13-2 win-loss ratio, primarily partnering with Paredes. This synergy not only bolstered Baruch’s overall strength but also set a high standard for competitive excellence within the CUNYAC. Mendoza’s consistent performance under pressure demonstrated leadership qualities that inspired his teammates and elevated the entire team’s morale.
Rising Stars and Leadership Recognition
Giovanni De Santis III quickly established himself as a formidable force on the court, capturing the Rookie of the Year distinction. His adaptability and skill contributed significantly to Baruch’s undefeated streak in conference play. Meanwhile, Coach Gregory Wyzykowski’s strategic acumen and motivational prowess guided Baruch to its seventh consecutive flawless regular season and another tournament crown.
De Santis III exhibited remarkable talent from the outset, finishing with a 6-1 singles record, including a commendable 4-1 at the No. 6 position. His unblemished 4-0 record against conference rivals underscored his readiness to compete at the highest level. Complementing these individual accomplishments, Coach Wyzykowski earned his third Coach of the Year honor in four years by fostering a cohesive unit capable of overcoming any challenge. His leadership extended beyond tactical guidance, instilling a winning mentality that resonated throughout the squad. Moreover, Taishawn Brownlee’s receipt of the Sportsmanship Award highlighted the importance of ethical conduct and mutual respect in athletic competition, reinforcing the values cherished by the CUNYAC community.
