The resurgence of UVA spring sports has been a great reminder of the commitment the athletic department has made to being competitive in all events. While some would argue "UVA should succeed in all preppy sports" it can't just instinctively happen, and while I was at school, the spring sports season was an afterthought, with the exception of lacrosse. The outstanding play of the lacrosse team has made for a great spring, I was able to take in the game against UMD in college park, on a great day the team looked outstanding. Honestly, I am anxious as they play (hopefully) over the next two weekends in the final 8. Additionally, the emergence of the baseball and tennis teams has been an unexpected bonus. Baseball is ranked in the Top 10 and readying for postseason play (where they have yet to experience great success). The tennis team has established a fairly dominant program, being ranked for @ the last 10 years, and being at the top of the rankings, of late. A tough season schedule made for more losses than expected, so it remains to be seen if the team has a competitive advantage in the NCAAs.
After years of mediocre spring sports, fully funding scholarships and improving the tennis and baseball facilities has aided UVA recruiting, as well as great coaching hirings. Having an athletics season that stretches 9 months is a privilege afforded to a handful of schools (Stanford, UCLA, Texas, UNC, Duke, Florida, Baylor) and I am glad UVA has made the jump to compete at the level of the country's top athletic programs.
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