NEW HAVEN, Conn. – The future continues to look bright for the Yale men's tennis team. The Bulldogs will welcome two talented newcomers in the Class of 2026. Vignesh Gogineni and Eric Li each bring strong credentials on and off the court.
 
The class was ranked No. 13 in the nation by TennisRecruiting.net.
 
"We are thrilled to welcome Eric and Vignesh to Yale and to our team," said Chris Drake, the Cary Leeds Head Coach of the Bulldogs. "Both players have been consistent winners on the US national circuit but more importantly both are extremely excited to work hard and continue developing their games at Yale.  We expect them to compete with our returning players for playing time and add to our program culture on and off the court."
 
Here is a closer look at Gogineni and Li:
 
Vignesh Gogineni
Mason, Ohio
William Mason High School
 
Before Yale: Three-time first team All-Ohio selection at William Mason High School… 2022 National High School All-American… Nominee for USA Today's High School Tennis Athlete of the Year… 2022 Ohio individual state champion… Ohio individual finalist in 2019 and 2021… Helped William Mason win 2019 state championship… National ranking high of No. 20…. Bronze ball winner at national indoor championships.
 
Personal: Worked with a nonprofit to aid and assist rural villagers with lack of healthcare during COVID… Taught tennis lessons to younger children in the community… Dad played cricket and mother ran track.
 
Why Yale? "Because of the great camaraderie between the guys on the team and the tremendous coaching staff. I also felt like Yale provided the best balance between athletics and academics and provided exceptional support in both aspects."
 
Eric Li
Skillman, New Jersey
Montgomery High School
 
Before Yale: 2022 New Jersey Player of the Year at Montgomery High School… Two-time first team all-state selection… 2021 Times of Trenton Boys Tennis Player of the Year… Somerset County champion in 2021 and 2022… Three-year team captain… Helped Montgomery win the 2019 state championship… Clinched the Tournament of Champions title with a victory for Montgomery, capping off an undefeated 2019 season… Ranked No. 1 in the Middle States section in boys 12s, 14s, 16s, and 18s… Highest USTA National Ranking of No. 7.
 
Personal: Performed piano and violin holiday concerts at senior centers… Competed in national piano competitions… Participated in debate and science clubs.
 
Why Yale? "Because of the plethora of academic and athletic resources to help me grow as a person and player. Also, I like the demanding environment of the team and believe that it will bring out the best in me as the coaches are very committed to the program and everyone is motivated to improve."