WATERVILLE, Maine – Simmons tennis has been accepted into the North Atlantic Conference (NAC) beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year announced by Commissioner Marcella Zalot on Friday.

"We're excited to welcome Simmons University as an associate member for women's tennis," said Commissioner Zalot. "Their addition enhances competitive balance, aligns geographically with our membership, and supports continued growth of the sport in the NAC."

The addition of the Simmons Sharks increases the NAC's women's tennis sponsorship to seven institutions. Core NAC members currently sponsoring the sport include Husson University, Lesley University, SUNY Delhi, Thomas College, VTSU-Johnson, and VTSU-Lyndon.

Simmons will be eligible to compete in the 2025 NAC Women's Tennis Championship and will have the opportunity to earn the conference's automatic bid to the NCAA Championship.

"We are thrilled to be welcomed into the North Atlantic Conference as an associate member in women's tennis beginning fall 2025," added Erica Schuling, Director of Athletics & Recreation. "This opportunity allows our student-athletes to compete at a high level within a strong, values-based conference that shares our commitment to academic and athletic excellence."

A member of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) since 2000–01, Simmons has captured 10 GNAC championships over 24 seasons, including a dominant run of eight straight titles from 2008–2015—during which the program won 76 consecutive conference matches.

"Simmons is thrilled to join the NAC for women's tennis," said Head Coach Bob Rauseo. "This move strengthens our team and aligns us with a conference known for its competitive play and strong commitment to sportsmanship."

The Sharks play their home matches at the Daly Field Athletic Complex in Brighton, Massachusetts. Completed in 2016, the facility features six NCAA-standard fenced courts for singles and doubles play.