The UNCW men's tennis team has been celebrated for their exceptional performance this season, with head coach Mait DuBois receiving the prestigious Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) Coach of the Year title for an impressive fifth consecutive year. Additionally, senior Harold Huens was honored as the CAA Player of the Year for the second time in a row. The accolades extend beyond these two, as four Seahawks were recognized across three All-CAA singles teams and two doubles teams received acknowledgment.
DuBois’s leadership guided UNCW to secure its fifth straight and 11th overall CAA Championship with a decisive victory over Elon. This achievement qualified the team for the NCAA Tournament. Notably, Huens contributed significantly with his stellar performances, maintaining a remarkable record at the No. 1 position. Other standout players include Sam Nicholson, Joseph Wayand, and Lukas Steffen, all contributing uniquely to the team's success through their individual achievements in singles and doubles categories.
Outstanding Leadership and Player Excellence
Mait DuBois's tenure has seen consistent success, marked by another Coach of the Year honor. Under his guidance, the Seahawks achieved a perfect home record and dominance within the CAA. Harold Huens stands out as a pivotal player, repeating as Player of the Year and excelling particularly in crucial matches towards the end of the season.
Mait DuBois's recognition as the CAA Coach of the Year underscores his influential role in shaping the UNCW men's tennis program into a powerhouse. Over the years, he has led the team to numerous championships, including this year's CAA Championship win against Elon. His strategic approach not only secured victories but also fostered an environment where players could excel both individually and collectively. Harold Huens's contributions have been instrumental, especially in the latter half of the season. With a near-flawless record in his final matches, Huens demonstrated resilience and skill, culminating in his second Player of the Year award. His journey from being named Rookie of the Year in 2022 to becoming one of the most decorated players in program history highlights his growth and impact on the team.
Team Achievements and Individual Recognition
Beyond the top honors, several Seahawks earned recognition for their performances in singles and doubles competitions. Their collective efforts solidified the team's reputation as a formidable force within the CAA.
In addition to the primary accolades, the Seahawk roster features multiple standout performers who received well-deserved recognition. Senior Sam Nicholson, ranked No. 104, played a crucial role in securing first-team All-CAA honors with an impressive 12-6 season record, demonstrating consistency in high-pressure situations. Joseph Wayand, another senior, earned second-team All-CAA honors and was named Most Outstanding Player at the CAA Championship after delivering a thrilling victory in a decisive match. Junior Lukas Steffen also made significant contributions, earning third-team All-CAA honors in singles. On the doubles front, the pairing of Wayand and Jordi Domenech shone brightly, achieving first-team All-CAA status with an 8-1 record in No. 1 doubles. They showcased their prowess by defeating nationally ranked opponents. Meanwhile, Huens and Steffen garnered third-team All-CAA doubles honors, further underscoring the depth and talent of the UNCW team. These recognitions reflect the team's commitment to excellence and teamwork, ensuring that UNCW remains a dominant presence in collegiate tennis circles.
