Notre Dame Selected to Columbus Regional

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – For the 27th time in program history and third-straight season under head coach Alison Silverio, the Notre Dame women’s tennis team has qualified for the NCAA Women’s Tennis Championships. The 24th-ranked Irish will head to Ohio State and compete at the Columbus Regional alongside the Buckeyes, UIC and Buffalo. The Irish will face off against UIC in the First Round.

So far in 2025, Notre Dame is an impressive 20-5 on the season overall and 9-3 in ACC matches, both win totals new highs under Silverio. The nine wins are the most conference wins by the Irish since joining the ACC in 2013.

The Irish were 81-37 in singles during the regular season, highlighted by All-ACC Singles Third Team selection Akari Matsuno. The junior was 13-5 overall and 9-4 in conference matches. She notched four ranked wins throughout the spring and is ranked the 49th-best singles player in the ITA singles rankings.

In doubles, Notre Dame was 36-24 throughout 2025. Carrie Beckman and Matsuno have teamed up to 7-5 overall record, all from No. 1 doubles, and an ITA ranking of 72.

The Irish will take on UIC in the First Round Friday, May 2nd at 10 a.m. in Columbus. Notre Dame has made it to the second round in back-to-back seasons.

**Notre Dame Selected to Columbus Regional: A New Chapter in the Tournament Journey**

The anticipation and excitement surrounding the NCAA basketball tournament reach a crescendo each spring as teams across the nation await their fates in the selection process. For the University of Notre Dame, a storied program with a rich history of success, the announcement of their placement in the Columbus Regional marks a significant milestone in their postseason journey. This selection not only signifies recognition of their hard-fought season but also sets the stage for potential glory on one of college basketball’s biggest stages.

Notre Dame’s journey to the NCAA tournament has been characterized by resilience, resilience, and determination. Under the leadership of their coaching staff, the Fighting Irish navigated a challenging schedule, facing formidable opponents both within their conference and out-of-conference matchups. Their regular-season performance earned them an at-large bid, a testament to their sustained excellence and consistency.

The selection committee’s decision to place Notre Dame in the Columbus Regional reflects their respect for the team’s talent and competitive resilience. The Columbus Regional, traditionally hosted in Ohio’s capital city, features a challenging field of competitors, and Notre Dame’s inclusion underscores their status as a formidable contender.

**Significance of the Columbus Regional Placement**

Placement in the Columbus Regional carries multiple implications for Notre Dame. First, it offers the opportunity to compete on a national stage against other top-tier programs. The regional is known for its passionate fan support, vibrant atmosphere, and strong basketball culture, which can serve as both an inspiration and a challenge for the Fighting Irish.

Second, the geographic location provides logistical advantages for Notre Dame’s supporters. Ohio is within a reasonable travel distance from South Bend, allowing for a sizable contingent of fans, students, alumni, and local supporters to attend and cheer on the team. The energy and home-court-like atmosphere of regional games can be a decisive factor, boosting the players’ confidence and performance.

Third, the regional placement influences the tournament’s pathway. Depending on their seeding, Notre Dame may face a variety of teams from different conferences, each with unique styles of play. Success in this regional could lead to a Sweet 16 appearance and beyond, igniting hopes for a deep tournament run and potential national recognition.

**Key Matchups and Expectations**

As the tournament begins, Notre Dame’s first-round matchup will be critical. Historically, the Irish have been known for their disciplined defense, versatile offense, and resilience under pressure. Their ability to adapt to different styles of play will be tested against their Columbus Regional opponents.

Potential opponents in this regional could include high-seeded teams with strong defensive schemes or prolific offenses. Notre Dame’s coaching staff will prepare the team meticulously, emphasizing their strengths—such as ball movement, perimeter shooting, and defensive intensity—to counter their opponents’ strategies.

The team’s leadership, including seasoned seniors and talented underclassmen, will play a vital role. Their experience in high-pressure situations could be the difference-maker in close games. Additionally, breakout performances from key players could elevate Notre Dame’s chances of advancing further.

**Historical Context and Program Prestige**

Notre Dame’s basketball program has a storied history, including multiple NCAA tournament appearances, deep runs, and a national championship in 1978. Their reputation as a competitive and respected program adds weight to their selection and expectations.

Over the years, the Irish have developed a reputation for producing disciplined teams that play cohesive basketball. Their style often emphasizes sound fundamentals, strong defense, and unselfish ball movement. This identity has served them well in tournament settings, where execution and mental toughness are paramount.

**Impact on the Community and University**

The selection to the Columbus Regional energizes the Notre Dame community—students, alumni, faculty, and fans alike. It provides an opportunity for campus celebration, community engagement, and national recognition. The tournament’s visibility can also boost recruiting efforts, as prospective student-athletes see Notre Dame competing on the big stage.

Furthermore, the success of the basketball team can have positive ripple effects across the university, fostering school spirit and pride. The team’s journey in the tournament can serve as a source of inspiration, illustrating the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and dedication.

**Preparation and Outlook**

In preparation for their regional games, Notre Dame will focus on fine-tuning their game plan, analyzing their potential opponents, and ensuring peak physical and mental condition. The coaching staff will emphasize strategic adjustments, scouting reports, and mental resilience to handle the pressure of tournament play.

While the road ahead is challenging, Notre Dame’s players and coaches are motivated by the opportunity to make history. A successful run in the Columbus Regional could cement their season as one of the most memorable in recent program history.

**Conclusion**

The selection of Notre Dame to the Columbus Regional marks a significant achievement for the team and the university. It symbolizes recognition of their talent, resilience, and pursuit of excellence. As they prepare to face tough competition in Ohio, the Fighting Irish carry with them the hopes and dreams of their supporters, eager to carve their path through the NCAA tournament.

This regional placement not only offers a chance for athletic success but also embodies the spirit of college basketball—competitive, passionate, and full of potential. Notre Dame’s journey in this regional promises excitement, drama, and a display of the best qualities that make college basketball a beloved American tradition. Fans and supporters alike will watch with anticipation, hoping their team’s dedication and hard work lead them to a memorable postseason run and, perhaps, a shot at national glory.