The tennis landscape is buzzing with excitement as the John McEnroe Tennis Academy prepares to host its 10th Annual College Recruiting Combine. Scheduled for June 27-28, 2026, at SPORTIME Port Washington, this year’s event promises to uphold its esteemed reputation as one of the leading recruiting opportunities for junior players seeking to elevate their tennis careers.
The Combine has gained prominence for its comprehensive approach, allowing both JMTA and non-JMTA players to demonstrate their skills to coaches from prestigious colleges and universities. The academy emphasizes the importance of providing a platform where young athletes can showcase both their technical prowess and tactical understanding of the game, as well as their overall athletic capability.
Last year, the event expanded its reach with a live-streaming feature, which enabled over 100 coaches nationwide to engage remotely, significantly broadening the exposure for participating players. John McEnroe, a legendary figure in tennis and co-founder of the academy, stated, “Helping players reach the next level has always been central to what we do at JMTA. Watching our Combine grow into one of the most respected recruiting events in the country has been incredibly rewarding.” The Combine returning to Port Washington holds particular significance for McEnroe, as it is the very location where he and his brother, Patrick, honed their skills during their youth.
SPORTIME Port Washington, which operates the Combine facility, has a rich history in American tennis and has undergone extensive renovations since transitioning from its previous identity as the Port Washington Tennis Academy. The venue continues to be a nurturing ground for emerging talents, boasting an impressive roster of past players, including legends such as Vitas Gerulaitis, Mary Carillo, and Tracy Austin.
This year, the Combine will host an equal split of 50 boys and 50 girls, with confirmed coaching representatives from universities such as Brown, Baylor, Cornell, Wake Forest, and Yale, among others. The event draws interest from all three NCAA Divisions, and previous years have seen attendance from prominent leagues, including the Ivy League and the SEC.
For aspiring participants, applications are open until May 31, 2026. Applicants will be evaluated by a dedicated Selection Committee based on an objective set of competitive criteria. Participants can expect a rigorous schedule commencing with morning check-ins followed by singles and doubles match-play, which is meticulously tracked to contribute to their Universal Tennis Rating (UTR). Additionally, players will undergo athletic performance assessments and have the unique opportunity to participate in Sports Vision Testing and discussions featuring college coaches.
One of the standout features of the Combine is its integrated recruiting package, which includes match videos that are promptly made available through personal Player Portals. This accessibility ensures that both participants and coaches can easily review performances at the touch of a button.
For detailed information regarding the event and JMTA’s College Placement Service, interested parties can visit the official website or reach out via email. The 10th Annual College Recruiting Combine stands as a vital stepping stone for young players aspiring to play at the collegiate level, making it an unmissable opportunity for ambitious tennis talents.
