URBANA, Ill, - Illinois men's tennis associate head coach Marcos Asse is stepping down from his role with the team after 13 seasons with the program.  Asse joined Brad Dancer's staff before the 2009-10 season and was elevated to associate head coach prior to the 2011-12 season.

"I came to Illinois to make an impact on the program but little did I know, it would impact me much more.  I have fallen in love with Illini tennis and the Champaign community," said Asse.  "My decision to step back is for two reasons, to focus more on my family and explore other professional opportunities outside of tennis."

"There are so many people I need to thank, but the following deserve a special mention: Ian Duvenhage for taking a chance on a small town Gainesville kid, he changed the trajectory of my life forever. Peter Daub for giving me my first professional opportunity, I am grateful for every lesson learned. Ron Guenther for hiring me at Illinois and Josh Whitman for being the greatest AD in the country I couldn't ask for a better boss. Thank you to Brad for giving me the opportunity to join the Illini Tennis family; I will be forever grateful. I also gained a new best friend in Brad. Lastly, none of this journey would be possible without my co-pilot, soulmate, and wonderful wife, Nikki. I look forward to the road ahead."

During his time with the Illini, Illinois made 12 NCAA tournament appearances, including a trip to the quarterfinals in 2018 and six Sweet Sixteen appearances. Asse helped the Orange and Blue win three Big Ten Championships (2012, 2015 and 2021) and in 2015 he was named the ITA Midwest Region Assistant Coach of the Year.

"Everyone who knows Marcos understands that his generosity knows no bounds. He is the most selfless and compassionate human I know, said Dancer. "His passion for life permeates our tennis program and community on a daily basis. I can't feel more lucky than to have worked alongside my best friend for the last 13 years.  The outpouring of love and gratitude from our alumni base demonstrates the weight of his impact on our program. Cos will continue to play a vital role in mentoring our student-athletes and bringing his contagious enthusiasm for all things Champaign."

Under Asse's guidance, the Illini have developed and produced individual success on the court, including nine student-athletes earning All-American honors, 15 individuals awarded All-Big Ten honors, and two players winning Big Ten Athlete of the Year. In 2014, Illinois made history as the only school to have four individuals earn All-America honors in the same season.