Historic HBCU Tennis Program Ends At Prairie View A&M

In a significant move reflecting the changing landscape of collegiate athletics, Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) has announced the immediate discontinuation of its Men’s and Women’s Tennis Programs. This decision is part of a strategic realignment within Panther Athletics aimed at ensuring operational excellence, fiscal sustainability, and the continued support and success of student-athletes.

Strategic Athletic Restructuring

University officials described the move as the result of a comprehensive evaluation of all athletic offerings. The conclusion to suspend tennis, though difficult, aligns with a broader strategy to focus resources on core programs. These are intended to serve the largest number of student-athletes and best reflect PVAMU’s institutional goals. The increasingly competitive and costly environment of collegiate sports—marked by rising operational expenses and facility demands—necessitated the change.

Honoring a Proud Legacy

For decades, PVAMU’s tennis programs have made substantial contributions to the university’s athletic success, fostering an environment of competitive excellence, character development, and academic growth. University leaders emphasized that this step in no way diminishes the achievements or legacy of past and current student-athletes, coaches, and the Panther Tennis community.

Student-Athlete Support at the Forefront

PVAMU has pledged a robust support effort for all athletes impacted by the change:

Scholarships Honored: Current athletic scholarships will be maintained through graduation for eligible student-athletes who remain at PVAMU and continue in good academic standing, provided they do not enter the transfer portal.

Guidance for Transfers: For those wishing to continue their tennis careers elsewhere, the university’s advisors and compliance staff will fully assist with NCAA transfer paperwork, academic guidance, and personal counseling.

Well-Being Services: Dedicated staff are available to offer ongoing personal and academic support as affected student-athletes navigate this transition.

Long-Term Vision: Excellence and Inclusivity

The university stresses that this strategic shift will allow for a stronger emphasis on modernizing athletic facilities, enhancing student support services, and reallocating resources to programs in alignment with institutional priorities. PVAMU also aims to expand opportunities for female student-athletes in compliance with Title IX and invest further in non-revenue sports.

A Message to the Panther Tennis Community

PVAMU expresses its deep gratitude to everyone associated with Panther Tennis—student-athletes, coaches, staff, alumni, and supporters. The resilience, sportsmanship, and commitment shown by these individuals have left an indelible mark on the university’s athletic identity.

Looking ahead, PVAMU reaffirms its commitment to building an athletic program grounded in excellence, inclusivity, and purposeful student engagement, preparing all athletes for lasting success in sports and beyond.

Historic Tennis At Prairie View

Prairie View A&M University’s men's and women's tennis programs have a storied legacy in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) competition.

Men’s Tennis:

Prairie View A&M has won 20 SWAC men's tennis championships. These titles were earned in the following years: 1938, 1947–1950, 1957–1960, 1962, 1964–1970, 2005, 2010, and 2013.

Women’s Tennis:

No official count of SWAC women’s tennis championships for Prairie View A&M is listed in the most reliable athletic records or recent summaries. The available sources and PVAMU's own championship ledger do not indicate any SWAC championship titles for the women’s tennis program.