THIBODAUX, La. - Nicholls State University head tennis coach Greg Harkins announced Tuesday the addition of former players Jessie Mount and Nicola Wehrle as student-assistant coaches for the Women's and Men's programs. 

"We are happy to announce that Nicola and Jessie will return to the program and assume new roles as assistant coaches," Coach Harkins said. "Nicola and Jessie showed tremendous leadership last season as fifth-year student-athletes and moving into a coaching role was a logical step for both of them. They bring a wealth of experience as former players and they also have a keen eye for development and match play strategy." 

Mount had an outstanding lone season for the women's team this spring, finishing 12-8 overall in singles. The Melbourne, Australia native was 4-2 at the No. 3 line in Southland play and added nonconference wins against Sam Houston and Stephen F. Austin. She was a one-time player of the week and also earned all-academic.

Wehrle also spent one season with the Colonels, combining for 15 wins -- eight in singles and seven in doubles. He played primarily on Line 4 in singles and saw action in 15 matches on the top court in doubles. 

QUOTE FROM HEAD COACH GREG HARKINS
Each year Colonel Tennis continues to grow, having Nicola and Jessie with us on staff this coming year is a great addition, and their wiliness to come back to the program shows that they are committed to the continued success of the programs for the future. These two just get it at all levels; work ethic, team support, competitive spirit, and excitement for the game and community. They will make an immediate impact on daily operations for the program, as it will be the first time in program history that we will have a full set of coaches for both programs. Having them on with us for practice and match play, etc. just gives us another dynamic that will help our SA's to succeed on and off the court!!!! We can't wait, and are very excited for them and what lies ahead for us this coming year.
 
QUOTE FROM ASSOCIATE HEAD COACH TAVIS RIEGER
The promotion of Jessie and Nicola from student-athletes into student-coaches roles is a testament to them as individuals and our Tennis programs. We are excited to continue with them in their next stage of development, while they contribute to leading the next level of experience and success with our current players. This is a step to celebrate, and more importantly to anticipate as we begin working together again this fall.

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