ANNVILLE, PA (Jan. 23, 2026) -- The DeSales University women's tennis team was selected T5th in the MAC Freedom women's tennis preseason poll announced by the conference office on Friday morning and as voted on by the eight MAC Freedom coaches.  

DeSales is tied in fifth place with King's at 15 points. Right above the Bulldogs in fourth place is Arcadia with 21 points. Stevens was ranked first with 36 points and six first place votes.  In second is Lebanon Valley with 31 points. Rounding out the top three is Misericordia at 23 points.  

Rick Farris returns in his sixth year as the Bulldogs head coach. Farris was named Co-Coach of the year during the 2025 season; he led the team to a five-match win streak in the middle of the spring schedule. In his first two seasons at DeSales, Farris lead the women's program to an 11-2 record and one MAC Freedom playoff appearance.  

The Bulldogs will have a fresh new lineup this season after finishing the 2024-25 year with a 6-11 overall record. DSU has seven first-year students on the roster, five of which saw significant action during a three-match fall schedule. 

DeSales opens their spring season on March 18th at Ursinus College. MAC Freedom play begins on March 28th versus Stevens at home.