After months of anticipation, Rollins tennis is back on campus. The newly completed courts at the Rollins Tennis and Golf Center are already giving both the men’s and women’s teams a true home again. According to Men’s Golf Coach Kyle Frakes, the main building is expected to open in October, but the courts themselves have been in action for several weeks.
For men’s Fabian Gusic (‘26), the difference between last season and this one couldn’t be clearer. “It was very exhausting to commute to practice every day,” Gusic recalled. “At Azalea we only had certain time slots, so no extra work. At Sanlando we had to share a bus with the women’s team, which cut into our schedule. And our home matches at the USTA center? They were seven to eight-hour trips. We missed classes, lost full days, and it didn’t feel like home at all.”
Players now walk from class to the courts in minutes, saving both time and energy. “Weekly, we probably lost about five hours just being in a car or bus,” Gusic said. “Now we can be here however long we want, adjust easier to weather, and just focus on getting better.”
The new courts also bring back something Rollins has missed: home-court advantage. With tight playing space and stone walls surrounding the courts, matches promise to feel electric. “The home-court advantage this year is going to be huge,” Gusic said. “It almost feels like an arena, and it gets loud really quick. If fans come out and bring energy, we can absolutely steal points and matches even against stronger teams.”
On the women’s side, Head Coach Tasi Batista stressed how significant the new facility is for a program with such a decorated past. “Securing an updated home site was a critical step — not just for current performance, but to honor a legacy that runs deep,” Batista said. “Rollins tennis has produced athletes who’ve gone on to compete at Grand Slams. A facility worthy of that tradition reinforces our commitment to excellence and inspires the next generation.”
For Batista, the logistical shift may not change her approach to coaching, but the emotional impact is unmistakable. “The physical part of it is easier, but organizing and managing practice remains the same for me,” she said. “The team excitement has been boosted by having a home site on campus. All our players are eager to showcase their talents and compete in front of the campus community.”
The women’s team will host its first official home tournament beginning Oct. 24, a chance to unveil the new facility to students, alumni, and the greater Rollins community. Batista hopes it sparks a stronger fan base than ever before.
“Last year, we were grateful for the strong support we received off campus,” she said. “This year, returning to a dedicated home facility presents an exciting opportunity to grow our fan base and deepen community engagement.”
With a roster blending experienced returners and talented newcomers, Batista sees potential for something special. “My expectations for the team this year are endless,” she said. “To the students who are excited to come out and watch, I would say get ready for an exhilarating ride at our new facility. Go Tars!”
For Gusic, who is entering his final season, the building’s completion can’t come soon enough. Updated locker rooms, an equipment room, and new stands for fans will give Rollins tennis a complete home environment. “I want to end my college career with a bang and light this place on fire with my energy,” he said. “With the support of the Rollins community, I know we can.”
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