Feb. 17, 2003

WACO, Texas - Baylor's men's tennis head coach Matt Knoll has been named College Coach of the Year for the Texas Division by the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA).

Knoll also serves as Baylor's Director of Intercollegiate Tennis and led the Bears to a 27-2 record and final national ranking of No. 7 last season. Currently Baylor is ranked third nationally.

Founded in 1927, USPTA is the world's oldest and largest association of tennis-teaching professionals. With more than 12,500 members worldwide, USPTA strives to raise the standards of the tennis profession while promoting greater awareness of the sport. The association offers more than 30 professional benefits for its members, including certification and extensive educational opportunities.

The purpose of USPTA is to raise the standards of teaching tennis as a profession; to increase interest and awareness in the sport of tennis.

"This is a very special award for me since it comes from and is voted upon by the people teaching tennis in the state of Texas. I appreciate that they recognize my interest and commitment to the educational aspects of coaching tennis," Knoll said.