In an exciting announcement from the University of Kentucky, the men’s tennis team and head coach Cedric Kauffmann have revealed the official signing of two high school seniors, Thomas Faurel and Andrew Mercer. These talented players are set to join the Wildcats in 2024 during the NCAA’s fall signing period.
Thomas Faurel hails from Scottsdale, Arizona, and attended Laurel Springs School. He boasts an impressive resume with a top ITF Junior ranking of No. 74. Faurel has clinched five singles and five doubles ITF Junior titles, showcasing his prowess in both categories. Additionally, he emerged victorious in the French Junior Championships in both singles and doubles. Faurel has also represented the French National Team and achieved a bronze medal at the U16 Team European Championships, along with a fourth-place finish in the Junior Davis Cup.
Coach Kauffmann expressed his enthusiasm for the signing, stating, “We’re very excited to have Thomas join our family. I knew he was a special player the first time I saw him. He is very professional and very driven. He will fit right in and will be a big asset for us next year. I can’t wait for him to get to campus.”
On the other hand, Andrew Mercer, a native of Huntington, West Virginia, attended Huntington High School. Mercer has notched notable achievements, including being a two-time State Singles Champion and securing victories as the Boys’ National U16 Easter Bowl Doubles Champion and Boys’ National U16 Indoors Doubles Champion. Moreover, he has been named the High School Conference Player of the Year twice and was ranked No. 1 in USTA Boys’ 16s doubles in May of 2022. Mercer’s family also has a tennis background, with his father, John, playing tennis at Penn State, his mother, Laurie, playing tennis at Furman, and his sister, Cassie, playing tennis at UVA. Notably, his brother, JJ, is currently a player on the Kentucky tennis team.
Coach Kauffmann expressed his excitement for Mercer’s signing, stating, “We’re really excited to have AJ become a Wildcat. He understands who we are and what we are about. We have a great relationship with the Mercer family, and I can’t wait to have AJ join us.”
Fans can stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates on UK Men’s Tennis by following the Wildcats on X and Instagram at @UKMensTennis.
