Ryan McClure, a distinguished Lakeside graduate, has officially taken the reins as the new head men’s and women’s tennis coach at the University of Mount Union, marking a significant milestone in his coaching journey. This pivotal appointment sees McClure transition from a dedicated assistant coach to leading both Purple Raider tennis programs, a move that underscores his commitment to collegiate athletics and the development of student athletes.
The opportunity for McClure arose as Mount Union strategically decided to elevate the head tennis coaching position from a part-time to a full-time role. This decision reflected the athletic department’s foresight and recognition of the value a dedicated full-time coach could bring to the tennis programs, which previously lacked such leadership. The university demonstrated confidence in McClure, entrusting him with this critical new responsibility.
McClure’s motivation extends beyond the court, driven by a profound desire to positively impact the lives of his players. He views coaching not just as a profession, but as a passion—a lifelong dream realized sooner than he anticipated. This philosophical approach to tennis coaching aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals who excel both academically and athletically, embodying the spirit of university education.
The Mount Union tennis teams feature notable talent, including Saint John graduate Jacob Timonere on the men’s squad and Madison alumnus Chloe Bancroft on the women’s team. Both Purple Raiders teams are set to face Penn State Behrend at 4 p.m. on October 5, with the match taking place at Saint John School’s Nassief Courts. Adding to the local interest, Behrend is coached by Geneva graduate Louis Murphy Jr.
Looking ahead to his inaugural year, Coach McClure has clear goals for the Mount Union tennis program: to establish a stronger name for the team and strategically flip the script on previous match outcomes against familiar opponents. This competitive drive is a cornerstone of his vision for the future, aiming to elevate the team’s standing within collegiate tennis.
McClure is determined to etch the Mount Union tennis program into the university’s broader legacy of athletic excellence. He acknowledges the path ahead will be challenging but expresses full confidence in his men and women, whom he describes as “grinders” ready to face every obstacle. This long-term vision emphasizes sustained growth and competitive integrity for collegiate athletics.
A key aspect of McClure’s strategy involves recruiting players who are not only eager to compete at a high level but are also profoundly committed to their academic pursuits. He underscores Mount Union’s pride in being a highly respectable program that values integrity, honesty, and hard work, ensuring student athletes prioritize their university education.
The philosophy at Mount Union, as articulated by McClure, emphasizes that while tennis is a vital part of the student experience, the ultimate value lies in the degree earned. This reinforces the program’s dedication to providing a holistic experience where academic achievement is paramount, equipping players for success beyond their athletic careers.
Furthermore, McClure is actively in the process of hiring a part-time assistant coach, a strategic move designed to facilitate more intensive practices and elevate the level of coaching available to the teams. With incoming freshmen on both the men’s and women’s teams, he anticipates a significant boost in competitive edge, driven by the players’ inherent determination and desire for success.
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