CLEVELAND, Ohio – Cleveland State men's tennis head coach Brian Etzkin announced the addition of three newcomers for the 2026-27 season, as Max Henson (Pittsburgh, Pa.), Nikolas Jacobson (Bradenton, Fla.) and Nicolas Wild (Cumming, Ga.) are set to join the Vikings this fall.
 
"I am excited to have this core of men to lead the Green and White for years to come. Max, Nico, and Niko are all very good students, excellent tennis players, and love the game! I can tell this group is going to thrive in a team environment as they are already finding ways to train together! As the roster turns over, I have no doubt that these men will carry the Viking culture, traditions, and championship hunting, into the next era with pride," Etzkin said.
 
MAX HENSON
Henson will join the Vikings following a prep career at Belle Vernon, where he was a PIAA State Champion. In addition, Belle Vernon was a Level 4 winner during his career.
 
Academically, Henson plans to pursue a degree in marketing after earning Honor Roll accolades in high school.
 
Henson on CSU: "I really enjoyed all of the guys on the team and Coach Etzkin, while the university offers a lot of opportunities."
 
NIKOLAS JACOBSON
Jacobson comes to Cleveland State following a prep career in which he was ranked No. 1 in Intermountain Tennis through 10u, 12u, and 14u, while also being ranked top-20 in the state of Florida through 16u.
 
In addition, Jacobson teamed with Wild to claim ninth place at the L1 USTA Doubles Tournament, while he also played L1 in Kalamazoo and Clay Courts.
 
Jacobson, who won the USTA John Hough Sportsmanship and Leadership Award, also earned Honor Roll all four years of his high school career, and plans to pursue a degree in business economics.
 
Jacobson on CSU: "I love the team atmosphere and the coach is very inspiring. The campus is beautiful and convenient to walk everywhere, while also offering a great academic program."
 
NICOLAS WILD
Wild will join the Vikings following a standout prep career that led him to becoming a four-star recruit. Wild has combined for a 55-5 record his first three years at West Forsyth, including a perfect 20-0 campaign as a sophomore.
 
As a two-time State Championship Runner-Up, Wild was named the Player of the County last year, while also picking up Team MVP honors in each of his first three seasons.
 
In addition, Wild teamed with Jacobson to claim ninth place at the L1 USTA Doubles Tournament, while also winning multiple L3 and L2 championships. 
 
Academically, Wild is a member of the All-AP Team, and plans to pursue a degree in economics.
 
Wild on CSU: "I chose Cleveland State because I truly believe in Coach Etzkin and the culture he's built. From the way he coaches to the energy he brings to the program, it's clear he cares about developing players both on and off the court. His dedication, leadership, and commitment to helping athletes grow makes CSU a place where I know I can challenge myself, get better every day, and be part of something meaningful."