Joe Ahmadian will take over as head coach beginning July 1, 2010.

BALDWIN CITY, Kan. - Former Baker tennis player Joe Ahmadian has been named the head men's and women's tennis coach at Baker University, announced Baker Associate Athletic Director Theresa Yetmar on Thursday.

A Dallas product, Ahmadian was named the 2007 Baker University Athlete of the Year during his senior season before being named an assistant tennis coach at Baker in 2008.

After completing his degree in 2008, Ahmadian became a certified teaching professional at the Midtown Athletic Club in Overland Park, Kan. Ahmadian was an assistant coach at Free State High School in Lawrence, Kan., in 2009 while serving as the assistant head professional at the Jayhawk Tennis Facility.

"I am very excited to coach at my alma mater," Ahmadian said. "I would like to thank the administration for this opportunity. My time as a student at Baker was very special to me. As a coach, I will make sure my players get the most out of their experience at Baker as student-athletes."

Said Yetmar, "We are extremely pleased that Joe has joined our athletics staff. As an alum and current assistant tennis pro, Joe understands the Baker experience and has vast knowledge of the game of tennis. He will be an asset to our department and guide our student-athletes to success both in the classroom and on the court."