Azusa Pacific University Athletics

2026 (Sophomore): Rudd-Hicks joins the Azusa Pacific program as a versatile addition to the Cougars' roster. Standing 6-foot-2 with a strong technical foundation, the former league champion brings high-level California prep experience and a year of collegiate development to the squad for the 2026 campaign.

Prior to APU (Point Loma Nazarene)

2025 (Freshman): Spent his first collegiate season at Point Loma, where he utilized a redshirt year. He was recognized for his commitment to academics, earning Academic All-PacWest honors.

High School A standout four-year letterwinner at Esperanza High School in Anaheim under coach Bill Nardi and private coach Evan Parry.

• Prep Accolades: A dominant force in league play, Jacob was crowned a three-time League Individual Champion (2021, 2022, 2024).

• Senior Season (2024): Led the Aztecs to a successful postseason run, reaching the Round of 16 at the prestigious Ojai Tennis Tournament and the CIF Individuals tournament.

• Academic Excellence: Earned Student-Athlete Academic honors and was a consistent member of the Honor Roll. He was also an active member of the school's chess club.

Personal Born March 2, 2006, in Mission Viejo, Calif... Son of Jennifer Rudd... Majoring in Physics with minors in Mathematics and Computer Science... Also has academic interests in philosophy and astronomy... Known by his teammates as "Judd"... Chose Azusa Pacific for its blend of competitive athletics and rigorous academic environment.

• Pre-game Ritual: Praying.

• Favorites: Alex De Minaur (Athlete), Catcher in the Rye (Book), Rocky (Movie), The Chosen (TV), and Louis Armstrong (Artist).

• Hobbies: Enjoys playing any game in his free time.

• Fun Fact: Jacob is a true multi-disciplined scholar, balancing the intensity of a Physics major with the strategic thinking of a chess club veteran.