Tennessee Hires Geoff Duggan as Director of Tennis Operations

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee men's and women's tennis programs announced Monday the hiring of Geoff Duggan as the director of tennis operations.

A native of Knoxville and a Tennessee graduate, Duggan is set to oversee day-to-day operations for both UT tennis programs, including team travel, equipment, facilities, tennis camps, special events and coordination for home matches.

"I'm ecstatic to have the opportunity to give back to an institution that has done so much for me," Duggan said. "I'm honored to serve as my family did before me, especially in a sport that I love."

He attended Mount Olive Elementary and graduated from what is now South-Doyle High School in 1974. His passion for tennis began at a young age, often walking or riding his bike three miles down Alcoa Highway to play at Tyson Park. At Tyson, he received instruction from Louis Royal, a former University of Tennessee tennis coach.

Duggan's connection with Tennessee includes his time as the high school coach of current Tennessee men's tennis head coach Chris Woodruff while Woodruff attended Bearden High School in Knoxville.

"I can't take any credit," Duggan said. "Woodruff didn't need a high school coach, but it sure was an honor to have him on the team and watch his development."

In return for lessons, Duggan worked for Royal, stringing rackets and helping run tournaments. The duo won the City Doubles Championship in 1979. The city championships were held prior to the appearance of USTA events.

"Geoff is a welcoming addition to our staff," Woodruff said. "He is a Tennessee alumnus with a strong passion for being a team player. We are all excited to watch him excel."

After graduating from UT in 1979, Duggan served for 34 years as a teacher for Knox County Schools. He coached several middle and high school tennis teams including Bearden Middle and High Schools, South-Doyle High School and STEM Academy. STEM Academy was a state finalist two years in a row, and Bearden High School—Woodruff in particular—won a doubles state championship under his leadership.

"Our program is excited to welcome Geoff to our staff," Tennessee women's tennis head coach Alison Ojeda said. "He is a Tennessee Vol who has been living in Knoxville and is very connected to our community. He is somebody who will care a great deal for each and every one of our players and coaches, as well as the success of our program.

"He is already paying attention to little details, introducing himself to the teams and making himself available. That is something that Chris and I both greatly appreciate."

Duggan's family has a long history with the University of Tennessee. Perkins Hall is named after his great grandfather, Charles Perkins, who helped start the UT College of Engineering. His great grandmother, Angie Warren Perkins, was the first Dean of Women at UT. His father and brother both graduated from UT, along with his daughter, Samantha.

"I've followed Tennessee athletics since I was eight years old and have an immeasurable passion for tennis," Duggan said. "My main goal is to support the tennis teams in a way that ensures their utmost success, while being a role model for tennis in the community."

University of Tennessee | Official Athletics Site

Tennessee Hires Geoff Duggan as Director of Tennis Operations

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