WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University men's tennis team was selected seventh in the 2026 Mountain East Conference Preseason Poll, announced Friday by the league office.

Charleston was voted the preseason favorite after earning six of the seven first-place votes, while West Virginia Wesleyan picked up the remaining top selection. Fairmont State, West Virginia State, Davis & Elkins, and Frostburg State rounded out the poll ahead of the Hilltoppers.

West Liberty will look to take steps forward during the 2026 campaign as it prepares to face a deep and accomplished MEC slate. The Hilltoppers aim to translate offseason development into results as conference competition gets underway.

Charleston enters the season as the reigning MEC and NCAA Atlantic Region champion after finishing the 2024-25 campaign 21-4 overall and advancing to the NCAA Sweet Sixteen.

The preseason poll was voted on by the league's head coaches, who were not allowed to vote for their own teams. The Hilltoppers will open the season Feb.13 against Penn State Behrend at the Westwood Racquet Club in Erie, Pa. 




 

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.