Teddy McEntee ’18 has signed to play tennis at the University of Tennessee!
McEntee shared, “I’ve always wanted to attend a big school with a rich history and tradition and The University of Tennessee is exactly that. Tennessee’s combination of superb athletics and a top-notch business school helped solidify my decision.”
He went on to say, “I truly cannot put into words what playing for UT means to me. Having had two shoulder surgeries and missing two years of tennis during my high school career was an extremely difficult obstacle to overcome. I really thought I’d never achieve my dreams of playing at the collegiate, let alone playing on a team like Tennessee’s. I will always be thankful to Coach Woodruff for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to be apart of the rich tradition held at the University of Tennessee. I still can’t believe I get to wear that T on my chest!”
A four-year Varsity letterman for the Friars, McEntee battled injury throughout his high school career but remained dedicated to the program continuing to fight to get back on the court time after time. In recognition of his desire, determination and discipline, he was awarded the Sherer Courage Award honoring a senior student-athlete who overcame personal challenges and persevered despite the barriers put in front of him.
Servite Tennis Coach JP Jugo ’05 shared, “We are very proud of Teddy for his accomplishments. He worked tirelessly to overcome so many setbacks and came out stronger because of it. We’re excited to see him shake things up at the next level.”
McEntee, who plans to study Economics or Supply Chain Management at UT, was a member of the Campus Life Committee at Servite as well as the Investment Club and the Hope Club while also volunteering at RAD (Rising Above Disabilities) Camp.
McEntee is the first Friar tennis player since Tanner Smith ’14 (USC) to sign to play with a Division 1 program. The Volunteers finished the 2018 season ranked in the Top 20 in the nation after posting a 21-9 overall record under first year head coach, Chris Woodruff.
McEntee comes from a tennis family having grown up watching his older brothers play competitively. As he makes the jump to the college level, he will follow in his brother Zac’s (Class of 2012) footsteps who had a successful career at the University of Connecticut.
McEntee would like to thank his family, friends and coaches for supporting him throughout his journey. He said, “First and foremost, I would like to thank my parents for the years of sacrifice and guidance. With out my family (Mom, Dad, Marty, Zac, Syd, and Johnny), I would be nothing. Mom and Dad, you taught me what true love is. I hope one day to be half the parents you are and to be able to fully express my gratitude to you.”
He continued, “Coach JP, thank you for always being there for me and for treating me as more than just a player. Thank you for embodying what it means to be a Servite man and having such a big impact on my life.”
In closing he added, “Lastly, a gigantic thank you to Coach Woodruff and Coach McKie for the opportunity to play for the University of Tennessee. Because of you, I am achieving my dreams of playing in college and I will forever be thankful! I am still completely speechless that I actually get to play at UT! GO VOLS!”
The Servite community would like to congratulate Teddy on this incredible achievement and wish him the best of luck as he competes at the collegiate level.
