Bethel University Wildcat Men’s Tennis 2026 Season Preview
Bethel University Wildcat Men's Tennis 2026 Season Preview
MCKENZIE, Tenn. - Coach Derrick Hubble enters his eighth season leading Bethel University Men's Tennis and the Wildcats are poised to build on the progress made during the 2025 campaign. Bethel finished last season with an 8–9 overall record and a 3–3 mark in Mid-South Conference play, earning a fourth-place finish in one of the league's most competitive years. The Wildcats showed steady growth throughout the season and now look to take the next step toward the top of the conference standings.
Coach Hubble continues to guide a program that has steadily developed in depth, culture, and competitiveness.
Key Losses
Bethel lost several key players from last year's squad. Coach Hubble commented, "The thought of these key players made me hit the recruiting trail hard."
- Pedro Vecchi
- Leonel Caspe
- Nafiralo Souleymane
Hubble added, "This group will be missed and will be tough to replace. I really appreciate all they gave to this program and how they help nurture it into what it will be in the future."
Returners
The Wildcats have continued to strengthen the roster through recruiting and transfers, adding players who are expected to make an immediate impact.
- Andrej Jovaanovic – Brings valuable collegiate experience and depth to the lineup.
- Mateo Prado – A versatile player with the potential to step into a significant role.
- Gabriel Perini – Perini's on-court presence is bold and confident, with the potential to shine at the collegiate level.
- Lucca Nesi – Adds technical skill, depth, and a competitive mindset that fits well within Bethel's system.
These additions complement the returning core and give the Wildcats increased flexibility across the lineup.
Newcomers and Transfers
To offset those losses, Bethel has added a strong group of new players and transfers who are expected to compete immediately and raise the overall level of the roster.
Newcomers include:
- Marc Altur – Brings energy and competitiveness, adding depth and versatility to the singles lineup.
- Guillermo Gomez Rodriguez – A technically sound player with the ability to contribute across multiple positions in the lineup.
Key transfers include:
- Kenzo Nishioka – Adds collegiate experience and composure, particularly in high-pressure match situations.
- Guilherme Nomura – A well-rounded player who strengthens both singles and doubles combinations.
- Santiago Perdomo – Brings athleticism and competitive edge, providing valuable depth throughout the lineup.
With this blend of returning leadership and impactful new additions, Bethel is well positioned to absorb its losses and continue building toward a stronger showing in the Mid-South Conference during the 2026 season.
Looking Ahead
With a balanced mix of experienced returners and talented newcomers, Bethel enters the 2026 season positioned to build on last year's momentum and challenge for higher placement in the Mid-South Conference. Depth, leadership, and continued development will be key factors as the Wildcats look to turn close matches into consistent wins.
Under the leadership of Coach Hubble, Bethel University Men's Tennis is ready to take another step forward. With a focus on chemistry, execution, and maximizing the potential of the entire roster, the Wildcats are prepared to make noise in the Mid-South Conference.