LA JOLLA, Calif. - UC San Diego is pleased to announce that Timmer Willing has been selected as head coach of the men's tennis team. The announcement was made Monday by Director of Athletics Earl W. Edwards.

Willing is no stranger to the UCSD tennis teams as he spent the last 11 seasons as an assistant coach with both the men's and women's squads.

"We're very pleased to put the men's tennis program in the hands of an excellent coach like Timmer Willing," said Edwards. "He's been a key part of the past success enjoyed by both our men's and women's teams and he has earned the opportunity to continue his work as head coach."

Willing began his tenure as an assistant at UCSD in 2002 and has helped shape the Tritons into perennial contenders on the national and regional levels.

The men were NCAA Division II national quarterfinalists in 2005, 2006 and 2007 and recorded their best-ever finish in 2007, placing third in the country. Willing was named the 2011 ITA National Assistant Coach of the Year after helping guide the men to a perfect 20-0 record in dual matches.

On the women's side, the Tritons won seven consecutive California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) titles between 2004 and 2010.

He has been tabbed the ITA West Region Assistant Coach of the Year several times.

"I am thrilled for the opportunity I have here at UCSD," said Willing. "I really appreciate the faith that the Athletics Department's administration has in me to continue to develop an already strong program. I also want to express my gratitude toward the players, who believe in me and wish to continue our path to an even higher level of success."

Prior to joining the Triton family, Willing was an assistant men's coach at Indiana University from 1994-96. He assisted the men's and women's teams at Truman State from 1991-93.

Since 1996, Willing has owned his own business in which he serves as the head tennis pro and fitness trainer at Southern California clubs. In addition, he is the fitness trainer for several tour players. 

Willing earned a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science from Truman State in 1993 and a Master's Degree in Teaching from the University of San Diego in 2009.

Willing replaces Eric Steidlmayer, who took a similar position at NCAA Division I UC Davis following a 14-year run at UCSD.

-- UCSDtritons.com --