Rod Ray, currently in his remarkable 24th year as the head tennis coach at Wofford College during the 2023-24 season, has left an indelible mark on the tennis program. Taking over in 2000, just three years after the transition to Division I, Ray has meticulously built a highly competitive tennis program. His coaching tenure has been characterized by notable achievements, including guiding the team through a challenging non-conference schedule and earning wins over prominent opponents like Clemson and North Carolina. Ray's coaching prowess is evident in the numerous accolades earned by his players, including Southern Conference recognitions and All-Academic honors. Under his leadership, the team's success is not only measured on the court but also in the classroom, with consistent appearances on the SoCon Academic Honor Roll and ITA All-Academic Team recognition. Beyond the numbers, Ray has fostered a culture of sportsmanship and excellence, reflected in the team's NCAA special recognition for outstanding academic achievement and sportsmanship. A respected figure in South Carolina tennis, Rod Ray's coaching journey extends beyond the court. His commitment to youth development is evident in the annual Rod Ray Tennis Camp, attracting young talents from across the Southeast. In 2022, he received a USTA South Carolina Coach of the Year Award, underscoring his impact on the tennis community. Ray's multifaceted career includes serving as the head women's coach and directing the tennis program at Wofford, showcasing his adaptability and dedication to the sport. Outside of coaching, Ray is undertaking a significant endeavor—writing a book titled "Hard Comes First," slated for publication in 2024. The book will share Ray's insights as a coach and a father of a child diagnosed with Autism, aiming to inspire and support goal setting. With a bachelor's and master's degree in political science, an MBA from Colorado State, and a profound influence on Wofford's tennis program, Rod Ray's legacy extends far beyond the confines of the court. Connect with Rod on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/rodray_/ You can explore more of Hernan's work on his website, https://www.hernanchousa.com/. The music enriching our show is the creative work of Sebastian Klauer. You can reach him at [email protected].