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NJIT highlanders Ace Move to Big South Conference for Tennis
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New Jersey Institute of technology (NJIT) is serving up a new chapter for its tennis programs, accepting an invitation to join the Big South Conference as an associate member. The transition, effective for the 2025-26 academic year, will see both the men’s and women’s teams compete in the NCAA Division I league.
Big South Welcomes NJIT Tennis
Big South Conference commissioner Sherika A. Montgomery expressed enthusiasm for the addition of NJIT’s “highly competitive tennis programs” [1]. The conference is committed to providing optimal student-athlete experiences in men’s and women’s tennis. The inclusion of NJIT and Bryant University expands the conference’s tennis offerings, complementing the recent addition of a Fall Individual Championship.
Did You Know? The Big South Conference was founded in 1983 and has grown to include nine full member institutions.
A Win-Win for NJIT and the Big South
Lenny kaplan, Associate Vice President/Director of Athletics at NJIT, conveyed his excitement for the move. He emphasized the importance of providing a competitive conference for the university’s tennis student-athletes. Kaplan connected with Commissioner Montgomery early in the search for a new home for the program.
With the addition of NJIT’s men’s and women’s tennis programs,and Bryant’s men’s tennis team,the Big South Conference will feature six women’s teams and six men’s teams next season. Key competitors will include Charleston Southern, Gardner-Webb, Longwood, Presbyterian, and UNC Asheville.
NJIT’s Tennis Programs: A History of Success
the NJIT men’s tennis team boasts a strong track record,holding a fifth-place ranking in the ITA Northeast Region. Their 2025 season saw an notable 18-4 overall record and a second consecutive appearance in the Southland Conference Championship Match. Players Pablo Perez Ramos and Nejc Skorjanc were recognized as the eighth-best doubles team in the region, with Perez Ramos also landing ninth in regional singles play.
Marco Matteucci,entering his fifth season as head coach,is eager to begin this new chapter in NJIT Tennis. He expressed gratitude to the conference for the warm welcome and looks forward to the challenges and championship opportunities ahead.
The NJIT women’s tennis team also holds a seventh-place ranking in the ITA Northeast Region, following a 13-6 overall record this season. Irene Cocero and laura Wipfli secured the #10 spot in the Northeast Regional rankings for doubles competition. The team concluded the 2024-25 season with its fourth consecutive trip to the Southland Conference Tournament and a second Southland Conference semifinal appearance. Their 13 wins marked the fourth straight season of double-digit victories.
Patricia Piorkowski McDonald, who will enter her fourth season at the helm of the Highlander women, conveyed her honor and gratitude for joining the Big South Conference. She anticipates growth in competition,sportsmanship,and shared excellence.
Championship opportunities Await
both the NJIT men’s and women’s tennis programs will have the chance to compete in the Big South’s Championship Tournaments, provided they rank in the top four teams in the standings. Eligibility for the league’s automatic berths to the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Tennis Tournaments is also on the line.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the Big South Conference standings to track NJIT’s progress toward championship contention.
2026 Big South Conference Championship Details
Mark your calendars! The 2026 Big South Conference Championship dates are set for October 24-26, 2025 (Tennis Individual Singles & Doubles) and April 15-18, 2026 (Tennis Championships).The Lexington County Tennis Complex in Lexington, SC, will host the events.
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Tennis Individual Singles & Doubles |
