Sept. 7, 2007
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — University of New Mexico head women’s tennis coach Kathy Kolankiewicz announced today that Roy Cañada has been promoted to the associate head women’s tennis coach. Cañada has been the assistant coach with Kolankiewicz for the past 11 years.
“This means a lot to me, I love the women’s tennis team,” Cañada said. “I feel very glad and honored to take this step. I will be a lot more involved with the recruiting and scheduling aspects.”
The Lobos have a 198-103 (.658) record since Cañada became the assistant coach. In his tenure at UNM, 17 athletes have earned all-conference honors. Cañada has earned ITA Central Region assistant coach of the year honors twice (2000, 2005).
“Roy has been a tremendous asset to our program. None of our success would have been possible without him,” Kolankiewicz said. “I am very happy with this promotion. We’re a good team and we work very well together.”
Cañada graduated from UNM in 1994 after playing with the Lobo men’s tennis team from 1991 to 94. He earned all-conference honors three of his four years (1991-92, 94). Cañada was named All-American in doubles in 1994 with his partner Coulter Wright. Cañada played on Lobo teams that swept the WAC Championships from 1992-94.
“I’ve had opportunities, during my time here, to be a head coach elsewhere but my heart is here in New Mexico,” Cañada said.
Cañada competed in the NCAA Tournament in doubles three straight seasons (1992-94). He still holds UNM’s fifth highest career wins in doubles (78) and the 17th highest winning number of wins (66) in career singles matches. Along with his collegiate playing career, Cañada played on the professional circuit. He was ranked No. 690 in the world in doubles and No. 840 in singles.
For more information on women’s tennis: visit golobos.cstv.com.