Harding University senior Cas de Ruiter has made school history by becoming the first men’s tennis player to earn NCAA Division II All-America honors since the university joined Division II in the 1997–98 season.
The All-America award, given by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA), recognizes players who finish the season ranked among the top 20 in the nation. De Ruiter ended the 2025 season ranked No. 8 in Division II singles, securing his place among the country’s elite.
Throughout the 2025 season, de Ruiter delivered a standout performance. He finished with a 19-12 singles record and broke a school record by defeating eight nationally ranked opponents. In the fall, he made more history by becoming the first Harding player to reach the semifinals of the ITA Cup, the national championship for NCAA Division II.
De Ruiter also shined in doubles. Teaming up with junior Adrian Solorzano, the pair earned a No. 11 national doubles ranking. Although they missed All-America status by just one spot, their 17-9 record reflected a strong season. This is the third straight year Harding has had a top-12 doubles team, with de Ruiter playing a key role in each one.
Led by head coach David Redding, the Harding men’s tennis team finished the 2025 season ranked No. 21 in the final ITA Division II national rankings—its highest ever. The team posted a 15-7 overall record and reached the semifinals of the Central Region Tournament.
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