Bulldogs Dominate Doubles, Cruise to Victory

South Carolina State asserted its dominance early, setting the tone with commanding doubles play. According to the official match report, “The Lady Bulldogs set the tone establishing early dominance in doubles play.”

The No. 1 doubles team, composed of Sofya Chursina and Hind Semlali, triumphed over NCCU’s Patricia Palencia and Gabriela Mejia Arenas with a 6-2 victory. Ashikha Amalnathan and Valeria Teran,the No. 3 pairing, solidified the doubles point for SCSU by defeating Alejandra Hidalgo Vega and Valentina De Aquino 6-3. The No. 2 doubles match was left unfinished, with SCSU’s Nalanda Teixeira de Silva and Teodora Vujicic trailing NCCU’s Mariana Zottoli and Valeria San Miguel soria 4-5.

Singles sweep Seals Championship

South Carolina State maintained its momentum into the singles matches, swiftly securing the points needed to clinch the championship. Ashikha Amalnathan delivered a straight-sets victory over Patricia Palencia at No. 4 singles, 6-3, 6-2. Valeria Teran extended the lead with a 6-4, 6-1 win against gabriela Mejia Arenas at No. 6 singles. Sofya Chursina, named MEAC Player of the Year, sealed the championship by defeating Alejandra Hidalgo vega 6-4, 7-5 at the No. 1 singles position.

“With the victory, S.C. State won the MEAC’s automatic qualifier to the NCAA Tennis Tournament which begins May 2,” read a statement following the match. The team awaited the NCAA Selection Show on April 28 to learn their tournament seeding and opponent.

A Historic Win for South Carolina State

This victory marks South Carolina State’s 19th overall MEAC Women’s Tennis Championship title. “This triumph marks South Carolina State’s 19th overall MEAC Women’s Tennis Championship title, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in the conference under the leadership of Coach Hardeep Judge, who was named MEAC Women’s Coach of the Year.” This achievement underscores the program’s consistent excellence and Coach judge’s leadership.

While South Carolina State celebrated another championship, North Carolina Central reached their first-ever MEAC Championship final. “North Carolina Central reached their first-ever MEAC Championship final, representing a meaningful milestone and a testament to the program’s growth under head coach Sophia Rachi.” This milestone reflects the program’s progress and promising future.

All-Tournament Honors

The MEAC recognized outstanding achievements throughout the tournament with the following honors:

• Outstanding Coach: Hardeep Judge, South Carolina state
• Outstanding Player: Sofya Chursina, South Carolina State

The All-Tournament Team comprised the following players:

The Broader Impact of HBCU Athletics

South Carolina State’s tennis program and its MEAC rivalry with North Carolina Central highlight the vital role that HBCUs play in collegiate athletics. These institutions provide opportunities for talented student-athletes, often fostering a strong sense of community and academic achievement alongside athletic success. Though, HBCU athletic programs frequently enough face funding disparities compared to predominantly white institutions (PWIs). This makes their achievements, like South Carolina State’s, all the more extraordinary, showcasing their resilience and dedication.

Some argue that focusing on athletics detracts from the academic mission of HBCUs. However, athletic programs can serve as a powerful recruitment tool, attracting students and alumni support, which in turn benefits the entire institution.The success of programs like South Carolina State’s tennis team can inspire future generations and create a positive cycle of achievement.

FAQ: South Carolina State Women’s Tennis

how many MEAC Women’s Tennis Championships has South Carolina State won?

South Carolina State has won a total of 19 MEAC Women’s Tennis Championships.

Who is the coach of the South Carolina State women’s Tennis team?

Hardeep Judge is the coach of the South Carolina State Women’s Tennis team and was named MEAC Women’s Coach of the Year.

Who was named the MEAC Women’s Tennis Player of the Year in 2025?

Sofya Chursina of South Carolina State was named the MEAC Women’s Tennis Player of the year in 2025.

Where was the 2025 MEAC Women’s Tennis Championship held?

The 2025 MEAC women’s Tennis Championship was held at Cary Tennis Park in Cary, North Carolina.

What is the importance of winning the MEAC Women’s Tennis Championship?

Winning the MEAC Women’s tennis Championship earns the team an automatic qualifier to the NCAA Tennis Tournament.