HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. -- Allegheny College head men's and women's tennis coach Dave Hayden was honored by the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) as the organization's 2023 Pennsylvania Coach of the Year.

The PTR recognized Hayden amidst an incredible year at Allegheny. He began his second season with the Gators by leading the women's team to the third conference championship in program history. The Presidents' Athletic Conference (PAC) crowned him the Coach of the Year, and six Gators received All-PAC accolades. Under Hayden's guidance, Allegheny is preparing to make its first-ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament as a team.

On the men's side, Allegheny - which was voted No. 1 in the PAC Preseason Coaches' Poll - is 11-4 overall with a 5-0 record against PAC opponents. The Gators have won eight of their matches by 9-0 final scores, while second-year netter Anton Hedlund (Hovas, Sweden/Katrinelundgymnasiet) achieved a regional ranking in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Central Region. 

"He is receiving this award due to his dedication to PTR and his dedication to the future of this industry," said Dan Santorum, PTR's chief executive officer. "Dave is a longtime member who has hosted many PTR workshops. As a college head coach, Dave consistently brings his teams to PTR Spring Tennis Fest. He encourages his student-athletes to become PTR certified members. We are grateful to have him on our team."

Hayden has been a member of the PTR, the largest global organization of tennis teaching professionals, since 1981. For more information, visit www.ptrtennis.org.