North Carolina State University Athletics
Bracone Named Assistant Men's Tennis Coach
10/14/1999 12:00:00 AM | Men's Tennis
Raleigh, N.C.--(Oct. 14) NC State announced on Friday that former NC State All-American Roberto Bracone has been named as the assistant coach to Eric Hayes on the men's tennis squad. Bracone, a four-time All-ACC selection, takes over the responsibilities of former full-time assistant, Justin Clark.
"I'm ecstatic to have Roberto remain with the team," said Hayes. "He was an important part of our squad going to the NCAA Tournament last season, and I think he'll be able to help us make a return trip this season."
Bracone was one of Hayes' first recruits when he took over the Wolfpack's program in 1995. Upon his arrival at NC State, Bracone immediately stepped into the number one singles position on the club to register 11 of his career 65 singles victories. Following his junior season in 1998, NC State finished ranked in the ITA poll (72nd) for the first time in school history.
On an individual note, Bracone was named ACC Player-of-the-Year as he captured the number one singles conference crown that same year. Last season, Bracone led the Pack to the NCAA Tournament for the second time in school history.
Hayes also taught Bracone while the two were together at the Palmer Tennis Academy in Florida. While there, Bracone won the National Clay Court Championships in the 18-and-under classification and finished ranked third in the nation.
"Both Roberto and myself are very pleased that he'll remain with us," said Hayes. "I think this will help our program to continue its ascension back to prominence."
