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Patrick McEnroe explains why shuddering college tennis affects the pros
TL;DR
Patrick McEnroe highlights a concerning trend of college tennis programs being cut due to funding issues, starting with the University of Arkansas. Other schools like St. Louis, Illinois State, and North Dakota have followed suit, raising alarms about the future of the sport.
Key points
- Patrick McEnroe speaks out against college tennis program cuts
- University of Arkansas first to announce program drop
- Other schools like St. Louis and Illinois State follow suit
- Funding issues are the main reason for program cuts
- Concern over the future of tennis development
Mentioned in this story
University of ArkansasSt. Louis UniversityIllinois State UniversityNorth DakotaPatrick McEnroeJohn McEnroe
NCAA
Patrick McEnroe is speaking out against the troubling trend of college tennis programs being dropped due to funding issues.
The University of Arkansas was the first to announce its decision last week. After that, St. Louis, Illinois State, and North Dakota made similar announcements. These are reputable Division 1 programs making this choice.
Along with his brother John McEnroe, Patrick played college tennis at Stanford University. He believes everyone should be concerned about what’s happening.
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What McEnroe said
College tennis serves as a great competitive playground for players. It provides consistent coaching and a team concept that is often absent in an individual sport. College tennis teaches players to be flexible as they may have to play multiple matches and disciplines on short notice.
John Isner was among the most well-known players in recent years to use college tennis as a springboard onto the ATP Tour.
Now, it is becoming more commonplace. Danielle Collins, Emma Navarro, Ben Shelton, Chris Eubanks, and Learner Tien are among the American players who honed their skills in college tennis.
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American players are not the only ones playing college tennis. Valentin Vacherot and Arthur Rinderknech, the cousins now competing on the ATP Tour for Monte Carlo and France respectively went to Texas A&M.
It is not clear if more colleges will follow suit. McEnroe’s voice will become louder in opposition if more make the same decision.
Q&A
What colleges have recently cut their tennis programs?
The University of Arkansas, St. Louis, Illinois State, and North Dakota have recently announced cuts to their college tennis programs.
Why are college tennis programs being dropped?
College tennis programs are being dropped primarily due to funding issues, which have become a troubling trend in recent years.
What impact does the decline of college tennis have on professional players?
The decline of college tennis programs could negatively affect the development of future professional players, as college tennis serves as a crucial pathway for many athletes.
