TEMPE, Ariz. - Behind the best season in the program's short history, Converse University head tennis coach James Smith has been named the ITA Southeast Region Coach of the Year.

"The student-athletes were the ones who got it done on the court. Thanks to them for buying in quickly with me starting just a few weeks before the school year began," praised Smith of his student-athletes. "I'm happiest about their development in all phases, not just on the court. We had a good time together this year, despite all types of adversity. I think we all learned so much, me included. I am genuinely sad this season is over and can't wait to build on it with both teams next year. Though the award is on the men's side, I feel the women's team took a big step forward as well."

Smith took the men's tennis program to new heights, leading the Valkyries, who were ranked seventh in the preseason poll, to the second seed in the conference tournament and the program's first-ever Conference Carolinas Championship match.

The Valkyries recorded their best season ever with a 13-6 record, going 7-2 in Conference Carolinas play. The team also set a program-record for longest win streak by winning nine consecutive matches from March 2 to April 4.

The Valkyries swept three matches and won another four by a final score of 6-1.

Sophomore Manuel Roncero was named third team all-conference. Roncero, fellow sophomore Takuma Furumaki and senior Leopold Morel all also earned CSC Academic All-District honors.

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