By: Karringtin Deffebaugh

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) – Arkansas Tennis programs have returned to the court this fall after both teams were cut unexpectedly due to funding.

On April 24th, the University’s decision to take away these programs came as a shock to the athletes and staff. Leaving them uncertain for what the future would look like and not being sure if they would be granted an extra season.

This announcement was most difficult to freshman redshirt Celine Simunyu, who already sat out a season prior to the defunding. Simunyu explains that she was unaware of what the future was going to hold. Worried that she would possibly have to transfer to another program, she still had hope left for her teammates to overcome this adversity. An opportunity to share the court with her teammates was all she wanted.

“I was so excited to be apart of the team and environment and not be a redshirt this season,” Simunyu said. “When the news was told to us I was like ‘Oh I might be in the same situation again,’”

Simunyu said Arkansas was always her calling and that no matter the outcome she was proud to call this place home.

This set back for the Razorbacks was only short term. Just 20 days later both Arkansas tennis teams returned ready to play. Supporters of the community came together to raise funding to keep programs running. Alumni, donors and former razorback players were the main assets to the fundraising to help these teams. These efforts to put the programs back together showed how the community showed up for each other and the sport of tennis creating a sence of belonging and purpose to each athlete in the program.

Head coach Tucker Clary, says this fast transition left the women’s team a small window to prepare for the following season. But being eager to return Clary said they came together to get it done.

“The good news is that we didn’t have a chance to go through all of the emotions because we brought it back so fast, but it was something that I thought would never happen.” Clary said.

Clary also expressed that the community has meant a lot to the Razorback programs and to his family, and that without them he’s not sure if this would be possible.

This comeback has given these two teams more than just another season, but a chance to prove themselves.