College Station, TX, October 22, 2025
News Summary
The Baylor men’s tennis team achieved remarkable success at the ITA Texas Regional Championships, highlighted by the doubles victory of Zsombor Velcz and Connor Van Schalkwyk. The duo’s championship win has secured them an automatic entry into the NCAA Individual Championships. With a strong overall record and several standout performances from teammates, Baylor is well-positioned as they prepare for the upcoming national championship in Orlando, Florida.
College Station, TX – The Baylor men’s tennis team garnered significant recognition at the ITA Texas Regional Championships, which took place over the past five days, culminating in a remarkable performance by the duo of senior Zsombor Velcz and junior Connor Van Schalkwyk. Their impressive victory in the doubles competition has awarded them an automatic entry into the 2025 NCAA Individual Championships.
Velcz and Van Schalkwyk showcased their skill and teamwork by defeating several strong opponents, including teams from UIW, Rice, and Texas. They secured the championship title with a tight match against Texas Tech, winning with a score of 6-3, 7-6 (3). Their success not only highlights their potential as individual athletes but also elevates the Baylor program ahead of the national championship in November.
In addition to Velcz and Van Schalkwyk, junior teammate Devin Badenhorst will also participate in the upcoming NCAA Singles and Doubles Championship, slated to occur from November 18-23 in Orlando, Florida. Badenhorst himself had a commendable run at the ITA Texas Regional, where he and senior Luc Koenig, ranked No. 5, made it to the quarterfinals before being ousted by Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, with a final score of 8-4.
On the singles front, 60th-ranked Connor Van Schalkwyk advanced to the semifinals but faced a challenging match against SMU’s No. 22 Trevor Svajda, ultimately losing 6-4, 6-2. Furthermore, senior Alexandru Chirita, currently ranked No. 101, made it to the quarterfinals, displaying competitive prowess throughout the event.
Junior Louis Bowden made notable strides in the tournament, achieving victories against competitors from Texas Tech, SMU, and Texas A&M. Additionally, freshman Drew Hedgecoe had a promising performance, registering multiple wins in the main draw, including a three-set victory over TCU’s Julian Alonso.
Overall, the Baylor men’s tennis team concluded the tournament with an impressive record of 19-7, with a doubles record standing at 8-3. Their strong showing at the ITA Texas Regional not only highlights the team’s competitive spirit but also establishes a solid foundation as they prepare for future collegiate competitions.
Context on Baylor Men’s Tennis
The Baylor men’s tennis program has a strong tradition of excellence, consistently producing skilled athletes who compete at the highest levels in collegiate tennis. The recent accomplishments at the ITA Texas Regional Championships exemplify the commitment and talent within the program. With NCAA Championships approaching, the team’s focus will be on refining their skills and building on their recent successes, aiming for further recognition and achievement on the national stage.
FAQ Section
What was the outcome of the ITA Texas Regional Championships for Baylor men’s tennis?
Baylor’s Zsombor Velcz and Connor Van Schalkwyk won the doubles title, earning a spot in the 2025 NCAA Individual Championships. The team concluded with an overall record of 19-7.
When will the NCAA Singles and Doubles Championship take place?
The NCAA Singles and Doubles Championship is scheduled for November 18-23 in Orlando, Florida.
Who else from the Baylor team will participate in the upcoming championship?
Junior Devin Badenhorst will also join Velcz and Van Schalkwyk in the NCAA Singles and Doubles Championship.
What were some key performances from the other team members during the tournament?
Seniors Alexandru Chirita and Luc Koenig, as well as junior Louis Bowden and freshman Drew Hedgecoe, all had impactful performances, with several advancing to quarterfinals and securing multiple wins.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Baylor Bears: ITA Texas Regionals
- Wikipedia: Intercollegiate Tennis Association
- Baylor Lariat: Women’s Tennis Fall Swing
- Google Search: 2025 NCAA Tennis Championship
- UTA Mavs: Fall Schedule Announcement
- Google Scholar: College Tennis 2025
- Baylor Bears: Fall Schedule 2025-26
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennis Championships
- Baylor Bears: Big 12/SEC Challenge
- Google News: Baylor Men’s Tennis 2025
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