Kentucky men’s tennis celebrated multiple accolades as three Wildcats were recognized in the 2024 Intercollegiate Tennis Association Division I Men’s Ohio Valley Regional Awards. Cedric Kauffmann earned the distinction of Wilson ITA Coach of the Year, Taha Baadi received the ITA Rafael Osuna Sportsmanship Award, and Eli Stephenson was honored as ITA Rookie of the Year.
Cedric Kauffmann: Wilson ITA Coach of the Year
Cedric Kauffmann secured his second consecutive Ohio Valley Regional Coach of the Year title, marking his third career recognition after previous honors in 2016 and 2023. In his 12th season at Kentucky, Kauffmann guided the Wildcats to a stellar 27-3 record. Under his leadership, the team achieved notable milestones including a third-straight NCAA Tournament quarterfinal appearance, an undefeated SEC regular-season title, and the program’s second consecutive SEC Tournament Championship. The Wildcats’ three losses in the season were the fewest since 1970, highlighting Kauffmann’s exceptional coaching prowess and the team’s historic achievements.
Taha Baadi: ITA Rafael Osuna Sportsmanship Award
Taha Baadi became Kentucky’s third recipient of the Ohio Valley Rafael Osuna Sportsmanship Award, joining past winners Gabriel Diallo (2022) and Eric Quigley (2012). The award recognizes Baadi’s exceptional commitment, courage, and positive attitude both on and off the court. As a pivotal player in the Wildcats’ lineup, Baadi competed at the top singles position throughout the 2024 season, compiling a 16-13 record in dual matches. His contributions extended to doubles, where he boasted a 15-6 mark. Baadi’s achievements culminated in an All-SEC First Team selection, a round of 32 appearance in the NCAA singles tournament, and a final ITA singles ranking of No. 21.
Eli Stephenson: ITA Rookie of the Year
Eli Stephenson was honored as the ITA Rookie of the Year for the Ohio Valley region, recognizing his outstanding freshman campaign. Hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, Stephenson delivered an impressive 17-1 record in singles during the spring season, showcasing his impact in the Wildcats’ lineup from the sixth position. His stellar performance earned him a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team and two SEC Freshman of the Week awards. Stephenson demonstrated clutch play throughout the season, notably clinching six critical matches for Kentucky, including a pivotal victory in the SEC Tournament Championship against South Carolina. He joins a distinguished list of Wildcats to receive the regional rookie of the year award, including Jesse Witten (2002), Bruno Agostinelli (2006), and Ryotaro Matsumura (2016).
Recognition of Excellence
The 2024 ITA Division I Men’s Ohio Valley Regional Awards highlight Kentucky’s exceptional season and the individual contributions of Cedric Kauffmann, Taha Baadi, and Eli Stephenson. Their achievements underscore Kentucky’s commitment to excellence in collegiate tennis, setting a high standard for future Wildcats and reinforcing the program’s competitive legacy in the Ohio Valley region.
