WEST HARTFORD, Conn. — After returning to collegiate competition last season for the first time in a decade, the University of Hartford women's tennis team enters 2026-27 looking to build on the foundation established during its return to the court.

Head coach Jeff Splinter enters his second season leading the Hawks, who finished 1-11 overall and 1-8 in Conference of New England play during their first season back. Hartford's lone victory came in decisive fashion, as the Hawks defeated Curry College, 7-0, on Oct. 25. Now, Hartford has a season of experience to build from.  

BRIGHT HORIZONS
One of the biggest changes surrounding the program this season comes off the court. Hartford recently added George Danes as an assistant coach for both the men's and women's tennis programs. Danes brings Conference of New England experience from his career at Endicott College, where he was a two-time All-Conference selection and team captain during the 2024-25 season. He also spent the previous season as a volunteer assistant at Union College. Danes will contribute both on the court and in recruiting as Hartford continues to strengthen its program. 

Later in the season, as Hartford prepares for a new tennis facility expected to open in late fall. Until then, the Hawks will play all of their home matches at the Watkinson School tennis courts, while two indoor contests against Suffolk and Nichols are scheduled at the Magic Lincer Tennis Club in Manchester.  

The 2026-27 season is a step in the right direction for Hartford women's tennis. With a full season behind them, a new assistant coach joining the staff, and a new facility on the horizon, the Hawks have plenty to look forward to.

NEW LINEUP
Together, the returning experience of players and the arrival of newcomers could help Hartford take another step forward in its second season back on the collegiate tennis court.
 

Junior Natalie Lamb enters the 2026 season in a new leadership role as captain of the Hawks. After posting a 1-9 record in singles and 2-8 mark in doubles last season, Lamb brings valuable experience into her new role. Lamb will provide veteran leadership as the program looks to build on its first year back on the court. With Hartford entering its second season and several players taking on expanded roles, Lamb's experience will be an important part of the Hawks' continued development.
 

"I learned valuable lessons from Hartford's first season on how discipline, hard work, and commitment can transform the team to our fullest potential. We also have grown so close as a team and I'm happy to see what we accomplish with our season."  
 

Junior Jessica Marks will also look to build on her sophomore campaign. A Hartford native, Marks finished 2-9 in doubles last season and picked up victories against Western New England and Curry. Her contributions extended far beyond the court as she earned CNE Academic All-Conference and Community Service Team honors.
 

"I think we're just more competitive this year. Last year was a lot about testing the waters and figuring out what kind of team we were, especially since this was something brand new not only for us, but for the university as well. Now, Hartford Women's Tennis is ready to give it our all. We've grown as a team, we know what we're capable of, and we're excited to have a great tennis season."  
 

Freshman Isabelle Simino is a standout newcomer. Originally from Franklin, Mass., Simino arrived at Hartford after serving as a team captain at Franklin High School and earning Hockomock League All-Star honors in 2026. Simino was also part of Franklin's 2024 Hockomock League championship team, giving the Hawks a first year with experience competing for a successful high school program. Simino can't wait to see how far she can push herself in her first season at Hartford all while creating memories and friendships with her new teammates.   

FULL INCOMING CLASS
Isabelle Simino (Franklin, Mass.),  Lia Gosselin (South Bend, Ind.),  Anna Long (Amherst, Mass.) 
 

SEASON OUTLOOK
The Hawks' second season begins Sept. 5, when Hartford hosts Rhode Island College at 1 p.m. at the Watkinson School tennis courts. The fall schedule features 15 matches, including 10 home contests, giving Hartford plenty of opportunities to establish itself on its home courts. The schedule also provides an early test against Conference of New England competition. Hartford's first conference match comes Sept. 15 at Western New England University. The Hawks will play 10 CNE matches during the fall, with additional conference opponents including Colby-Sawyer, Suffolk, Gordon, Saint Joseph, Roger Williams, University of New England, Nichols and Curry.  

The conference slate will be particularly important for a program still establishing its identity. Last season, Hartford gained valuable experience against CNE opponents, including a 7-0 win over Curry. The Hawks also faced several difficult matchups as they adjusted to the demands of collegiate competition.   
 

This year all home games will be streamed on the CNE Network powered by HUDL, while other game coverage can be found on the 2026 schedule home page. 
 

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