Aug. 7, 2006

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - University of Illinois women's tennis head coach Michelle Dasso announced the hiring of David Emery as assistant coach. Emery, a former assistant coach and standout player at James Madison University, fills the position left vacant in early June.

"I am very excited to have David join the Illinois tennis staff," Dasso said. "His hitting ability, plus the energy and love for the game he brings, will only help elevate the Fighting Illini tennis program."

Emery, a 2005 graduate of James Madison with a degree in sports management and a minor in business, brings with him an energetic attitude and extensive knowledge of the game to a rebuilding Illini program. The Fairfax, Va., native played at Virginia Tech from 2001-2003 before transferring to James Madison, where he finished his final two years of eligibility. At James Madison, Emery played at the No. 1 singles position and received first team All-Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) in 2005, and second team All-CAA in 2004. Emery also served as team captain from 2003-05.

"I could not be more excited about joining the University of Illinois' athletic program," Emery said. "I want to personally thank Associate Athletic Director Vince Ille and Coach Dasso for this incredible opportunity. I am excited to compete with and against the highest level of competition by joining the Big Ten Conference. The support system at Illinois is second to none, and I look forward to building a top-notch program with Coach Dasso."

This past year with the Dukes, Emery helped the doubles tandem of Jesse Tarr and John Snead to CAA Player of the Week honors, while the pair also earned third team All-CAA, finishing the season with an 8-2 record. In his first year on the staff, Emery helped the Dukes turn their record around, helping lead the team to a 13-13 season ledger, more than twice as many wins compared to the previous season. As an assistant coach at James Madison, Emery's duties included assisting with team practice, team lifting and in team travel. Most recently, Emery has also been working with Katie Ruckert, who is an established singles player on the pro tour, helping her reach a world ranking of 494.

"David is going to be a perfect fit for this staff," Dasso said. "His communication skills and enthusiasm also will be a big strength in our recruiting efforts at Illinois."

THE David Emery FILE

Born: October 20, 1982
Hired: August 2, 2006

Education
2005 B.A. in Sports Management, James Madison University

Coaching Experience
2005-06 James Madison, Assistant Coach

Playing Career
2001-03 Virginia Tech
2003-05 James Madison