Ferris State's Jose Perez Named National Winner Of ITA Most Improved Player Award

Big Rapids, Mich. - Ferris State University sophomore men's tennis standout Jose Perez (Quito, Ecuador) has been chosen as the national winner of the 2026 Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Most Improved Player Award. The national level awards were announced by the ITA.

Previously, Perez was tabbed as the ITA's Midwest Region Most Improved Player before going on to win the national honor.

Perez was chosen as the national winner of the Most Improved Player Award from among the group of eight individuals previously selected as regional award recipients of the honor.

After competing at the number five singles position last season where he achieved a record just above .500, this season Perez soared to new heights competing at the number two singles position and earning win after win. Going 22-2 across all matches this season, Perez rose into the Top 30 of the ITA Singles Rankings and recorded wins over many notable opponents this season.

Every year, the ITA recognizes coaches and student-athletes for their excellence both on the court and in their communities throughout the season.

The Division II national awards include: ITA Dunlop/Coach of the Year, ITA Assistant Coach of the Year, Arthur Ashe Leadership & Sportsmanship Award, ITA Rookie of the Year, ITA Most Improved Senior, ITA Senior Player of the Year, and the ITA Player to Watch.

This season, Perez helped lead the Bulldogs to a 19-4 overall record under head coach Mark Doren. FSU won the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Regular Season and Tournament titles along with the Midwest Region crown. FSU also made its first appearance in the NCAA D2 Sweet Sixteen and the national championships since 2017.

Perez becomes the second Bulldog standout in the last three years to claim the national ITA Most Improved Player honor, following in the footsteps of former Bulldog Esunge Ndumbe, who received the same honor in 2024.