Tempe, AZ – The Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) announced its 2026 ITA NAIA Men's and Women's Tennis Regional and National Award Recipients. Every year the ITA recognizes coaches and student-athletes for their excellence both on the court and in their communities throughout the season. Between both the Bethel men's and women's programs, the Threshers earned six Central Region awards and one National Award.

The Bethel College tennis programs added another milestone to already impressive seasons as multiple student-athletes and coaches earned prestigious honors from the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) at both the regional and national levels. The awards highlight the continued success and growth of the Bethel men's and women's tennis teams on and off the court.

Men's Tennis senior Petr Kollar, who was named the ITA NAIA Central Region Senior Player of the Year. Kollar's leadership and consistency throughout his career helped establish him as one of the top players in the region, while also helping elevate the Bethel men's program to new heights.

On the women's side, senior, Patty Huerta received one of the highest honors in collegiate tennis, earning the ITA Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award for the NAIA Central Region before also being selected as the national winner. The award recognizes outstanding sportsmanship, leadership, academic achievement, and community involvement, making Huerta's accomplishment especially significant on the national stage.

Additional regional recognition went to Jorge Batista, who earned the ITA NAIA Central Region Most Improved Player award after a strong season of development and performance. Daniela Casique was also honored as the ITA NAIA Central Region Player to Watch, recognizing her emerging talent and impact within the region.

The success extended to the coaching staff as well. Jordan Singh was named ITA NAIA Central Region Assistant Coach of the Year, while Gabe Johnson earned ITA NAIA Central Region Men's Coach of the Year honors. Their leadership played a major role in the continued rise of Bethel tennis and the development of student-athletes both competitively and personally.

These awards reflect a historic season for Bethel College tennis and showcase the program's commitment to excellence in competition, academics, leadership, and sportsmanship. With national recognition continuing to grow, the Threshers have firmly established themselves as one of the premier NAIA tennis programs in the Central Region.