Jackeline Lopez: Keeping the College Vibes Alive
INTENNSE Tennis
3 MINS | Published on 12/22/25
Jackeline Lopez’s journey to collegiate tennis began with a dream of playing on the professional circuit. As a high school sophomore, her ambitions were aimed directly at life as a touring pro. But when college coaches started reaching out and she was invited on campus visits, her perspective began to change. Her visit to Rutgers was decisive. “I fell in love with the campus, with the coaches. Everyone on the staff there was very nice to me and welcoming.” Choosing Rutgers felt natural, like joining a second family, and the transition into college tennis set her on a new path.
Stepping onto the courts as a Scarlet Knight, Jackeline experienced a new kind of thrill. No longer was she battling only for her own score—now, every point contributed to her team’s fate. “You go to matches and you have your teammates supporting you. Your coaches are on the court with you, which is so nice because they can give you feedback during the matches.”
The pressures and joys of competing together, cheering from the sidelines, and pushing through practices bonded her to her teammates. That first year was a challenge, but soon the camaraderie and sense of belonging led her to cherish every moment, both on and off the court.
Rutgers became more than just a university. It was a home, and she found herself unsure about being willing to leave behind the excitement, friendships, and shared victories.
As graduation approached and the chapter of college tennis closed, a familiar longing pulled at Jackeline’s heart—the need for that vibrant team atmosphere. Scrolling through Instagram, she stumbled upon an ad for INTENNSE and was immediately intrigued: a team-based league with fresh energy and new opportunities. “I didn’t want to stop playing tennis because tennis is my passion and I enjoy it.”
The INTENNSE arena delivered the type of electric environment she desired. Her parents, now able to watch matches broadcast live, celebrated from home while she faced new nerves—and new excitement—on court.
Playing for INTENNSE was a blend of independence and togetherness. The format echoed her collegiate experience, with the added twists of dynamic substitutions, raucous crowds, and a streamlined schedule. “It felt like college tennis to me. You have your team with you. You’re playing for your team and at the same time you’re playing by yourself. So it’s a mix.”
No longer did she have to endure the uncertainties of solo pro tours; matches at INTENNSE were scheduled, the coaching consistent, and her teammates were always nearby. “You’re not traveling out there alone to crazy adventure countries and you’re playing in the U.S. The crowd just makes it a great atmosphere, which is something you don’t see at the beginning of the professional tour. You don’t have a big crowd, so having that big crowd in the arena is amazing and that’s what drew my attention.”
The mental strain of constant travel in her junior ITF days faded away, replaced by the confidence and support INTENNSE brought.
Today, Jackeline feels grateful and fulfilled by her journey. From the competitive fires of junior tennis and the tight-knit teams at Rutgers, she’s found a home in INTENNSE—a stage where her passion, skill, and love for team spirit continue to thrive. “I feel like going the INTENNSE route just gives you a different side view of tennis, and you keep playing tennis, you keep playing the sport that you enjoy.”
Tennis is still more than a game for Jackeline, who is registered to play in INTENNSE once again next season. She’s ready for the lights, the music, and the camaraderie that made the experience unforgettable.
Applications for players are due by January 31, 2026.
