FLORENCE, Ala. (July 17, 2025) – University of North Alabama Director of Athletics
Dr. Josh Looney announced a contract extension for the UNA tennis program on Thursday, as Director of Tennis
Olaya Garrido-Rivas agreed to a three-year extension through the 2029 season.
Garrido-Rivas, with assistance from Coach
Aitor Reparaz on the men's side, has guided the UNA tennis programs to one of the best three-year stretches in school history. This includes a combined 49-10 record between the men's and women's programs in 2025.
"The championship rise of UNA Tennis is a direct reflection of the competitive culture, optimism and resilience our coaches have instilled throughout both programs over the past three years," said Looney. "Every aspect of our tennis programs has elevated as the 'firsts' keep stacking. This extension has us fired up about the continued trajectory of our programs and their leadership."
Both coaches were voted Atlantic Sun Conference Coach of the Year.
"I'm incredibly grateful to continue leading the tennis program at the University of North Alabama," said Garrido-Rivas. "This past season was a reflection of the hard work, dedication and belief of our student-athletes, department and community. I'm proud of how far we've come. Being one of the top teams in the conference and region is just the beginning — the goal is to keep raising the standard and building something special here in Florence for the years to come. Roar Lions!"
On the men's side, the Lions finished with a 20-4 record and a perfect 10-0 record against the Atlantic Sun Conference, including two postseason wins. The Lions knocked off Stetson by a 4-1 final in Jacksonville, Fla. to win the school's first Division I tournament championship in any sport. The Lions were selected to the Starkville Regional and battled No. 22 Michigan State in the first round.
The men's team finished No. 63 in the final poll — the highest ranking in school history. As a result, the Lions were selected to play in the 2026 ITA Kickoff Weekend this coming January at No. 6 Ohio State.
"I have really enjoyed my three years at UNA," said Reparaz. "I love the support of the community, and I am very proud of the efforts the players are putting in season after season. I love seeing the progress our program and athletic department is having. I can't wait to see how far we can take it. I'm eager and hungry for more success. Roar Lions!"
On the women's side, UNA posted an impressive 19-6 overall record with a 7-2 record in league play. The Lions won two postseason tournament games against Austin Peay and North Florida, advancing to play top-seeded Stetson in the ASUN Championship.
Although the Lions did not win the title, the season continued with an invitation to the UTR Sports NIT Championship in Rome, Ga. The Lions defeated Middle Tennessee in the quarterfinal round before falling to No. 48 Charlotte in the semifinals. This marked the first non-conference postseason win for the program.
For more information on North Alabama Athletics, visit www.roarlions.com and follow UNA Athletics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
