Tennis at North Carolina Wesleyan is a “new” program with a rich tradition. How can a Tennis program be old and young at the same time? Beacuse Battling Bishop tennis was a dominant program in the 1970’s, winning conference championships in 1973, 1975, and 1976. Wesleyan has had several players make All-Conference teams over the years, as well as Coach Jim Purser being named Conference Coach of the Year in 1971. In 1977, the team was discontinued due to financial constraints of the College. The men’s team was reinstated in 1998, along with the addition of a women’s program.

Practice and home matches are held at our tennis complex on campus. Built in 1997 and paid for through the generosity of many friends of the program, this state-of-the-art facility features six courts, three of which are lighted.

Both programs are year-round with the traditional season beginning in the spring. Like all other NCWC athletic squads, tennis competes in the USA South Conference, a conference with many competitive programs loaded with tennis tradition. All Wesleyan athletes compete at the NCAA Division III level, therefore, NCWC does not offer athletic scholarships. However, over 80% of our students receive some sort of need-based or academic-based financial aid.

The Bishop tennis programs are demanding both physically and mentally. For that reason, coaches and administrators expect 100% from our student- athletes. Wesleyan athletes are students first and are expected to be highly motivated in the classroom, while serving as ambassadors of the College. Academic achievement is of utmost importance.

Wesleyan Tennis is looking for good students, good athletes, and good people. Team members not only represent themselves, but they also represent the team and the College. For this reason, members of the North Carolina Wesleyan tennis team are expected to be outstanding in all that they do.