(TAMPA, Fla.) – Sarah Lytle, Hillsborough Community College (HCC) Athletic Director and tennis head coach, was selected as the Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA) State/National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 8 Women’s Coach of the Year. This is the second year in a row that Lytle has received this award.
“I am honored to be named FCSAA Coach of the Year, but it would not be possible without an incredible support system in place at HCC,” Lytle said. “Dean Bentrovato, Scott “Kiki” Keller, Leah Becker and Tim Kocher have been vital to the success of our women’s tennis team, as well as our five other sport teams. My assistant coach, Paula Rives, has been an excellent addition to the program and has developed a great relationship with both myself and our athletes.”
Under Lytle and Rives, the Lady Hawks tennis team completed an impressive 9-1 season and earned the NJCAA Region 8 State Champions title on April 14-15, 2022, in Sanlando Park in Altamonte Springs. Lytle was recognized during the tournament as well.
“Most of all, it comes down to having eight hardworking athletes who set high goals for themselves and their team, then take action towards achieving those goals every day,” said Lytle.
The Lady Hawks are preparing to head to Tucson, AZ, for the NJCAA Division 1 Women’s Tennis Championship on May 7-11.
“I am once again amazed at the success of our Women’s Tennis team led by head coach and HCC Athletic Director Sarah Lytle,” said Dean of Student Services Joe Bentrovato. “From season to season, she maintains her enthusiasm, drive and dedication to our Lady Hawks student-athletes. By once again winning the state title, earning Coach of the Year honors and watching her students succeed academically, it is clear that Ms. Lytle has the focus and work ethic necessary to lead students through these formative college years.”
The Lady Hawks currently practice and compete at the Tejas Pradip Patel HCC Tennis Center, located on the Dale Mabry Campus. For court registration, center hours and more, please visit hccfl.edu/tennis-center.
Hillsborough Community College serves more than 42,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For more information, visit hccfl.edu.
HCC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Visit hccfl.edu/accreditation for more information.