October 31, 2005

BLACKSBURG, Va. - Virginia Tech has announced the hiring of Nate Feldman as women's tennis assistant coach. Feldman replaces interim assistant Melissa Woods who worked with the Tech program during the spring dual-match season.

Feldman comes to Virginia Tech after serving as an assistant professional at several country clubs and tennis camps, including the prestigious Interlachen Country Club in Edina, Minn. He also worked as a traveling coach for several nationally-ranked juniors who were participating in United States Tennis Association (USTA) sectional and Super National tournaments. Additionally, Feldman served as a volunteer coach for Saint Paul Academy and Summit School, helping the team capture the Class A state title. He was also the hitting partner for 2005 French Open women's quarter finalist Sesil Karatancheva.

"We are pleased with the hiring of Nate Feldman," said Virginia Tech women's tennis coach Terry Ann Zawacki-Woods. "I am looking forward to Nate bringing positive energy and hard work to our program."

The 23-year old Feldman played his college tennis at the University of Minnesota, and was a member of the 2002-03 team that finished with a No. 10 national ranking. At Minnesota, he saw his playing time reduced due to two, non-sport related surgeries, but still managed to participate in doubles. Feldman excelled off the court where he was a three-time academic All-Big Ten selection and a four-time scholar-athlete.

Feldman is a 2004 graduate of the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sport Sciences and a Master's degree in Applied Kinesiology. He recently studied coaching and player development during a two-week stay in Vaxjo, Sweden under the guidance of Swedish standouts Stefan Edberg, Magnus Larson, and Carl Axel-Hageskog.

"It is an absolute honor and privilege to be welcomed into the Virginia Tech athletics family and to assist Coach Zawacki-Woods," said Feldman. "The academic reputation and outstanding support for athletics by the university, make this a truly special place to coach. We have an extremely talented group of players that are committed to improving each day. I look forward to helping the team achieve a high level of success, while growing as players and individuals."

The Hokies will conclude the fall schedule at the Kitty Harrison Mock Duals, Nov. 3-6 in Chapel Hill, N.C.