Poughkeepsie, NY - For the seventh year in a row, the Vassar College men's tennis team has earned the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Community Service Northeast Regional Award. Out of more than 100 men's tennis programs in the highly competitive Northeast region, Vassar was selected for its exceptional dedication to campus and local outreach through both tennis-related and external service projects.
A Year of Giving Back (2025–26)
The Brewers stayed active in the Dutchess County community throughout the 2025–26 academic year, dedicating their time to several impactful initiatives:
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Combating Food Insecurity: The team volunteered at the Dutchess Outreach Lunch Box, preparing and serving nutritious, chef-led hot lunches and dinners to local residents.
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Environmental Stewardship: Throughout the fall and spring seasons, the student-athletes recycled hundreds of used tennis balls, keeping substantial waste out of local landfills.
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Breast Cancer Awareness: Throughout October, the team raised awareness for the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation. All proceeds from the initiative were donated directly to the foundation, providing vital support to Hudson Valley families affected by breast cancer.
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Winter Essentials Drive: Team members sorted through thousands of garments for the Dutchess Outreach Coat Drive, ensuring neighbors in need had access to warm winter gear.
From Coach McDermott
"Winning this award for a seventh straight year shows that community service is a permanent part of who we are. Our players don't just view themselves as students at Vassar; they see themselves as an active part of the Poughkeepsie community. I'm incredibly proud of their devotion to our long-standing local partnerships and how consistently they show up for our neighbors. They truly embody what it means to be leaders on the court, in the classroom, and in the community."
