With his first opportunity to make an imprint on the team's schedule, Cashman took action. Matches against the University of Florida, the University of South Florida, UAB, Penn State and DePaul appeared on the schedule. The team went 4-4 in the aforementioned big games, showing they can hold their own against top competition. Still, UCF isn't without its weaknesses. The team has struggled badly in doubles matches, and it showed in its last TAAC regular season match when they were swept against Florida Atlantic.
Injuries have also beset their lower singles seed, putting their depth into question.
UCF still has to consider itself one of the tournament favorites. The Golden Knights join Florida Atlantic, Georgia State, Stetson and Troy State. FAU, 18-4, comes in as the big favorite following its undefeated TAAC record. The Owls went 6-0 with victories over all four of their fellow contenders. Last year's champs, Georgia State, also had a strong season.