Royals Women’s Tennis Set for 2025–26 Season

Royals Women's Tennis Set for 2025–26 Season

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – With the first week of classes behind them, the Johnson University women's tennis team is set to begin its fall competition season the second weekend of September. While the majority of the Royals' schedule will take place in the spring, the fall provides valuable opportunities for match play, featuring five dual matches, two invitationals, and the ITA Regional Championships.

Experience and Youth in the Lineup

The Royals return the bulk of their roster from last season, blending veteran leadership with a talented group of underclassmen. Caroline Rhoton, the team's lone senior, enters her fourth season already ranked in the program's all-time top five for singles wins, doubles wins, overall wins, and total matches played.

Joining her as an upperclassman is junior Isabella Stigall, who has been a consistent presence in the lineup since her freshman year. A strong sophomore class of Berkley Clark, Connleigh Irwin, Marina Lasneaux, Maria Gracia Ponce, and Carson Young returns after an impressive debut season, bringing both experience and energy.

The roster also features an exciting freshman class: Francesca Crosa, Kambria Gore, Averie Stalnaker, and Leanora Ceravola, all of whom are expected to contribute right away and add depth to the team.

Coach Hale's Outlook

Head Coach Seth Hale is eager to see how the mix of returning talent and new additions will shape the season:

"We had so much growth last year with such a large freshman class and I can't wait to see how that has developed into this year," Hale said. "We are really excited for our freshmen who are going to make immediate impacts and add a depth to our team that we've not had over the past few years. Our upperclassmen, though we only have two, have stepped up into those leadership roles and have been fantastic mentors through the preseason. We've got lots of energy and I am very excited to get this season going!"

Up Next

The Royals will open their fall season at the King Hidden Dual on September 12, facing players from Lincoln Memorial, Ferrum College, and UVA Wise. With a strong returning core, seasoned leadership, and promising new faces, Johnson women's tennis is poised for an exciting 2025–26 campaign.