May 1, 2008

DENVER, COLO. - Metro State head men's and women's tennis coach Dave Alden has resigned his position in order to accept the same position at Washburn University, Roadrunner Athletic Director Joan McDermott announced Thursday.

In addition to his duties as tennis coach, Alden also serves as the athletic department's assistant athletic director for external affairs.

"I would like to thank Dave for all he has done for our department over the years," said McDermott. "He has done a great job not only with the tennis team but in his position as assistant athletic director. This is a great opportunity for him but we will miss him."

Alden, the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Men's Coach of the Year in 2008, spent five seasons at the helm of the Roadrunner tennis program. The men have advanced to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances and have won two consecutive conference tournament titles. Alden also was named the RMAC women's Coach of the Year in 2004 as the Roadrunners won the regular-season and tournament championships and advanced to the NCAA Tournament.

"I would like to recognize and give my sincere thanks to President Jordan, as well as the coaches, administrators and support staff at Metro State," said Alden. "I would also like to recognize the student-athletes and interns that I have had the pleasure to work with over the years. My time at Metro State has been very rewarding and I will cherish all of the relationships that I have built. Finally, I would like to give a special thanks to Joan McDermott. I will forever be indebted to her for giving me this opportunity and the continued support that she gave me and my family over the past five years."

Alden, who earned his bachelor's degree from Metro State in 2004, spent time as a tennis professional at Regency Health and Sport in McLean, Va., and at the Fort Collins Indoor Tennis Center prior to his arrival at Metro State.