LAKELAND, Fla. — Southeastern University Director of Athletics Drew Watson has announced the hiring of Traci Young as the head men’s and women’s tennis coach.
“I am so excited to become the next men’s and women’s tennis coach at Southeastern University,” said Young. “I am looking forward to working with the faculty and staff to build strong relationships and provide a positive athletic experience for those on my teams. I feel very blessed to be joining the Fire athletic staff.”
Young comes to SEU from Valparaiso University, where she has served as Associate Athletic Director for Student Services the last two academic years. Prior to her role on the administrative staff, Young was the Crusaders’ women’s tennis coach, coaching 13 Horizon League Academic Honor Roll selections in six seasons. Additionally, she served as a tennis pro at The Courts of Northwest Indiana where she was responsible for running clinics and teaching private lessons.
“Traci is a high-energy coach who will be a tremendous asset to our tennis programs,” said Watson. “She brings a unique mix of coaching and administrative experience that I believe will help our tennis programs continue their push to the top of The Sun Conference.”
Young played USTA junior tennis at the Midwest level as well as nationally in the 12 and under division up through 18s. She played collegiately at NCAA I Ohio University, serving as team captain, and was also named team MVP.
Young also supported the student-athletes of Valparaiso as the Associate Athletic Director for Life Skills and was the Equity and Diversity Chair. In this role, she was the host and coordinator of special events for 450 student-athletes, partnering with the on-campus career center, admissions, success center, and residence life departments.
The Fire women’s team advanced to The Sun Conference semifinal last season, and the men’s team finished fifth in the conference in 2017.