DOBBS FERRY, NY - The Mercy College Department of Athletics has announced the appointment of Leaf O'Neal as head men's tennis coach. He takes over a program that returns five letterwinners.

"Leaf's strong ties to the community will be an asset to the college," Director of Athletics Pat Kennedy said. "The tennis team has been one of the most competitive programs at Mercy and he is committed to continuing that legacy."

O'Neal comes to Mercy College with a wealth of experience. He is currently the Director of Tennis at The Windmill Club, where he leads a coaching program for nationally ranked juniors. He manages all aspects of the program, including court management, budgets, advertising, events and staff.

At ClubFit in Briarcliff he was a Head Tennis Pro, where he independently maintained a roster of private and group lessons for nationally and regionally ranked junior players. O'Neal actively helped the tennis department grow by mentoring assistant pro's and supporting the overall program.

In 2007, O'Neal was the head coach at the College of Mount St. Vincent. He managed all tennis activities, such as staffing, recruiting, scheduling and press relations. He also organized new programs to promote tennis to the community in Riverdale. He planned junior tournaments, coaches showcases, and college invitationals.

O'Neal has two years of collegiate playing experience and was an Academic All-American while at the University of Southern Mississippi.  He competed in rugby for two years and is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society. As an undergraduate he earned a bachelor's degree in Literature.

-Provided by Mercy Sports Information Department.