Jacksonville, Florida-Edward Waters University opened its newest, on-campus athletics facility as the ribbon was officially cut on the new EWU Tennis Complex during a ceremony on Thursday afternoon.

The four NCAA level regulation courts, painted in the distinctive colors of the University, purple, orange, and white, will be the new practice and competition facility of the new Edward Waters women's tennis program, which was announced to the University's athletics offerings in May of 2023. 

"This complex represents more than just bricks and mortar," stated University Associate Vice President/Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Ivana Rich, "It embodies our unwavering commitment to progress, prosperity,  and the betterment of EWU students." 

Additionally, the program was brought to campus in part, thanks to a grant from the United States Tennis Association (USTA) as well as the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA). 

"These four tennis courts represent more than just rectangles with lines, paint, and a fence around it, this is a classroom."  remarked Laura Bowen, Executive Director of USTA Florida "The students and community will play here will learn lessons that will carry them forward through the rest of their lives."

In attendance at the event this afternoon were representatives from the MaliVai Washington Foundation, including Terri Florio, Executive Director and CEO along with the namesake of the organization, former four-time ATP Tour winner, 1996 Wimbledon Finalist, 1996 Olympian, and Northeast Florida resident, MaliVai Washington.

"This is the culmination of a vision that was cast about four years ago." said EWU President/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr. "Tennis is a game that teaches you self-control, to not let your emotions rule you, and is a great vehicle in athletics."

The new women's tennis program will mark the first time in the history of Edward Waters that a varsity tennis program male or female will be sponsored by the University. It will also be the state of Florida's only NCAA Division II HBCU program. The Lady Tigers will take to the courts for their inaugural season, competing as members of the SIAC, in the Spring of 2024.

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