Elon men’s tennis announced Dennis Smith as its new head coach via social media Sept. 14.
“Elon has all the ingredients necessary to compete at the top of the CAA every year,” Smith said in a press release from Elon Athletics. “I'm committed to building a family-first culture rooted in competitiveness, consistency, and compassion that nurtures student-athlete growth as both tennis players and people.”
Smith comes to Elon after spending four years with North Carolina State University, first as a volunteer assistant in 2022 and then as an assistant coach in 2024.
The Wolfpack made four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances while Smith was with the program, including making the Sweet 16 in 2025.
Athletic Director Jennifer Strawley said she was excited to add Smith to the program in a press release from Elon Athletics.
“He brings great energy, a tireless work ethic and a genuine commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the court,” Strawley said.
Smith will replace former head coach Maciek Sykut, who led Elon to its second conference title last season. Sykut left Elon over the summer after only his second year of coaching.
Elon also lost four players from its championship roster last season, including former No. 1 singles player Veljko Krstic, who graduated, and No. 2 singles player Rafael Ymer, who transferred to the University of Kentucky.