The Bison men’s tennis team recently welcomed Bruce Myers as the new head coach. The 1993 Randolph-Macon College alumnus is a veteran coach, boasting experience from multiple institutions in the past few years, most recently as the men’s head coach at the University of Delaware. He has a reputation for developing and advancing programs rapidly, precisely what he hopes to do with the Bison.

Myers tennis career dates back to high school. While continuing his tennis career at Randolph-Macon College, he was a three-year captain and two-time All-Old Dominion Athletic Conference selection. He even had the opportunity to be hitting partner to Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) professional Casey Robinson for two years prior to starting his career as a collegiate coach. Myers shares his passion for tennis with his wife, and they proved it by getting engaged at the U.S. Open, and later marrying on the tennis courts of Randolph-Macon.

Before turning to a career in tennis, Myers applied his business economics degree to the business sector as CEO of The National Financial News Services and owner of Shoprate.com. His passion for tennis remained, however, as he continued participating in competitive play and became a certified professional.

In 2008, Myers was named head professional at Radnor Valley Country Club. He started his coaching career four years later as an assistant coach at Immaculata University. Prior to his position with the Bison, Myers had experience coaching at Division I and Division III programs, including schools such as Randolph-Macon College, North Carolina A&T State University, Longwood University, and the University of Delaware.

The Goshen, Ind. native spends his time with his wife and five sons, playing golf, ice hockey, and of course, tennis. When he’s not watching his favorite player, Florian Mayer, Myers and his family plan vacations around tennis tournaments. Recently, the family has traveled to attend the Cincinnati, U.S. Open, Winston-Salem Open, and the Italian Open.

Myers was drawn to the University because of its smaller classes and academic-centered environment. As a result, Myers’ recent transition to Lewisburg has been a somewhat nostalgic experience.

“[The University] reminds me a lot more of my college experience, which I enjoyed a tremendous amount,” Myers said. “Being able to work with some of the top students in the country is very exciting.”

Myers recognizes the tough road ahead for the Orange and Blue, as they prepare to take on nationally ranked teams like No. 3 University of North Carolina and No. 35 Penn State. He hopes his new coaching style and different perspective will provide the team with an opportunity to develop and advance.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of coaching is to see your players not only grow, but to see their tangible results improve,” Myers said. He continued, “It will not happen overnight, but I think they are all up for the challenge.”

Returning to the courts from last season’s 14-13 record, the Bison will continue their fall season as they participate in Saint Joseph’s Invitational Sept. 16-Sept.18.