Grand Rapids Reporter

Ferris State University men's tennis player Esunge Ndumbe has been recognized with two major regional awards by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA). The sophomore from Keller, Texas, was named the ITA Midwest Region Most Improved Player and the ITA Midwest Region Player to Watch. These accolades follow his contribution to the Bulldogs' victory in the 2024 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Championship.

The ITA announced a total of eight regional awards, with Ndumbe securing two. His recognition at the regional level qualifies him for consideration for national awards in each category. The ITA annually honors coaches and players for their performance on the court and their community involvement throughout the season.

The Division II Playing Awards include categories such as Wilson ITA Coach of the Year, ITA Assistant Coach of the Year, Arthur Ashe Leadership & Sportsmanship, ITA Rookie of the Year, and others. National award winners will be revealed on May 21.

Ndumbe's achievements this season include advancing to the number one position in singles for Ferris State and finishing with a 20-7 overall record. In conference play, he achieved a 5-1 record at the top flight. In doubles, he partnered with Alessandro Santangelo to achieve a 13-8 overall record and a 4-2 mark in conference matches at the number two spot. Nationally, Ndumbe is ranked 20th in singles and 40th in doubles according to recent ITA rankings.

He also earned All-GLIAC First Team honors as part of a team that concluded with a 17-5 overall record. Under head coach Mark Doren, Ferris State won both regular season and tournament championships in GLIAC play and secured their ninth consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.