HAMILTON, N.Y. (9/2/09) - Colgate head men’s and women’s tennis coach Bobby Pennington has announced the hiring of Courtney Vernon as the new assistant coach.
"I am thrilled to welcome Courtney to the Colgate tennis family” stated Pennington. “We feel very lucky to get somebody who has competed at the highest level collegiately and professionally. I think she will help take both our teams to the next level. This is a big step up for Colgate tennis."
Vernon comes to Colgate after serving as a coach and assistant at tennis professional Kelly Jones’ training center in Tampa, Fla.
A 2009 graduate of the University of South Florida, Vernon earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology while playing at both the No. 1 and No. 2 singles positions. A team captain during the 2006-07 season Vernon competed at the 2006 NCAA singles championship and compiling a record of 23-0 that year. She has been ranked as high as #38 nationally in collegiate singles.
During her senior year, Vernon served as an undergraduate assistant coach for the USF tennis team. Her duties included assisting in practices, developing practice plans and working individually with players.
Additionally Vernon has competed in professional tournaments in the U.S., Japan, Mexico and Australia. Vernon defeated the #200 ranked singles player in the world and has reached a WTA ranking as high as #638 in singles.
“I’m looking forward to being a part of the men’s and women’s tennis programs here at Colgate,” commented Vernon. “I hear the teams have a lot of potential and I’m looking forward to helping Bobby take them to the next level.”