By: Aly Covington
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) – The University of Arkansas welcomes a former student-athlete back to campus in a new role. Jay Udwadia was named the men’s tennis coach here on campus. This is his first season working as head coach.
Coach Udwadia says, “I think every coach would love to coach their alma mater. To be back is really special.”
Udwadia accomplished a lot during his time as an athlete. Making appearances in the NCAA tournament and landing a spot in national rankings are a couple of accolades Udwadia took part in as a Hog.
Not only is it special to Udwadia to be back, it’s unique for his athletes to have someone who was in their shoes recently too.
Junior tennis player Foster Rogers says that “it’s cool having a coach that has the same fire and passion for the hogs that we all do.”
One thing Udwadia has emphasized in his first year back is implementing a family-type atmosphere. Rogers says they have had team dinners at Coach Udwadia’s house and also been to Top Golf together. Having that team bonding and team chemistry is important to Udwadia and his athletes.
Another aspect off the court that Udwadia has worked on is the relationship between the athletes and the fans. He says he wants his team to be serving in the community and becoming friends with those who support them. He says he wants their athletes and fans to be on a first-name-basis when they come to their matches.
It’s also been important to Udwadia to not shake things up.
Udwadia says, “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it. I mean it’s the University of Arkansas so you’re going to have some of the best athletes come here. It’s one of the best schools in the country.”
Udwadia says he’s excited to be back.