The men's tennis team has hired a new assistant coach, Nestor Bernabe. Bernabe was a Division II All-American in 2003 at Sonoma State. While at Sonoma State, Bernabe was a four-time team MVP and had a stellar senior season. In addition to earning first team All-American honors that season, Bernabe was ranked No. 16 in singles at the end of that year and was ranked No. 130 in the U.S. National Open rankings. Over the course of his career, Bernabe compiled a career-record of 142-49.
Following his graduation, Bernabe played professionally from 2003-07, during which time he earned ranking in both singles and doubles play. He also served as a WTA Tour practice partner for Justine Henin during the 2004 U.S. Open.
In addition to his extensive playing experience, Bernabe will also be bringing years of coaching experience to the Bears. In 2006 Bernabe served as director at the Sonoma Tennis Academy; the year before he was an instructor at La Cantera Racquet and Swim Club. From 2003-04 he worked as an independent youth coach.
The Bears surely will put Bernabe to work right away, as they only have one week left of practice before starting their fall season on Sept. 19.
