Men's Tennis Head Coach Drew Barrett on Why Give, Why Now

Can you share an example of one or two ways philanthropic support has made your program stronger recently?
The gift of a state-of-the-art video streaming system has profoundly transformed and elevated our tennis program at Davidson. Donated by the generous Hager family, this technology has become an invaluable asset, significantly enhancing the overall experience for players, families and the coaching staff. The impact of this gift extends far beyond the mere convenience of streaming matches; it has become an integral part of our training, development strategy and even the recruitment process.

From a coaching perspective, the video streaming system has emerged as a cornerstone of our development approach. It is used to review matches with players on a weekly basis, providing an invaluable tool for analyzing performances, identifying strengths and areas for improvement, and formulating targeted training plans. This enhanced feedback has proven instrumental in refining players' skills, strategic understanding and overall game performance.

The gift of the video streaming system has not only enriched the experience for current players and their families but has also become a pivotal tool in the ongoing development of our scholar-athletes and our ability to recruit top level players. This contribution has left an enduring mark on our tennis program for years to come.

What are some key ways you see your program advancing in the next 1, 2, 5 years?

Playing a sport at Davidson provides you with a lifelong connection to the college. Over the years, I've enjoyed following the tennis team, continuing building connections and staying in touch with my teammates and friends. By providing for the tennis program, I'm investing in the current players while maintaining my connection to the tennis community at Davidson. It's great to have such an intimate relationship with a team that meant a lot to me as a student and to see the impact on the team and the program. Davidosn gives students the chance to play a D1 sport with an emphasis on academic rigor, and it takes a special kind of person to pursue that.
~ Jeff Lyle '80

Ideally, the next few years will look something like this:

Next Year:

Enhanced Training and Analytics:
- Invest in advanced training methodologies and sports analytics to further refine player skills and strategies. (Swing vision or similar)
Fan Engagement Initiatives:
- Develop targeted fan engagement initiatives to increase attendance at matches.
- Implement interactive fan experiences during games to create a more dynamic and enjoyable atmosphere. Offer free gear or food at events.
Immediate Fundraising:
- Secure financial support for specific needs such as equipment upgrades, travel expenses and scholarship dollars.
- Communicate directly with families and alums to generate immediate support for the upcoming season.

Next 2 Years:

Facility Upgrades and Expansion:
- Plan and execute facility upgrades: adding outdoor covered shelter between bleachers, adding sound system to outdoor courts, upgrading cameras with sound capabilities, electronic line calling system (in/out- swing vision). New LED indoor lights.
- Explore opportunities for expanding existing facilities to accommodate the growing needs of our program. Outdoor lights, two indoor courts.
Alumni Mentorship Program:
- Establish a formalized alumni mentorship program to connect current players with successful alums.
- Leverage the experience and expertise of alums to provide valuable guidance and support to the team.
Recruitment Pipeline Strengthening:
- Strengthen relationships with domestic and international recruiting networks.
- Develop a targeted recruitment strategy to ensure a consistent influx of top talent in the coming years.

Next 5 Years:

Strategic Planning for Long-Term Success:
- Engage in strategic planning sessions with key stakeholders to set long-term goals for the program.
- Evaluate and adjust strategies based on the evolving landscape of collegiate tennis and the A-10 Conference, NIL, scholarships, facilities, etc.

What do you see in our scholar-athletes every day that makes an investment in them worthwhile?
I witness an extraordinary commitment, especially at Davidson, where scholar-athletes manage substantial academic responsibilities alongside demanding training schedules. Our athletes learn to cope with failures, bounce back from adversity and develop resilience. They learn invaluable leadership qualities and the ability to work as part of a team. They build character values such as discipline, dedication, integrity and sportsmanship.

I can't think of any more worthwhile investment than supporting and fostering an environment where these qualities take shape and become ingrained in these young men who will eventually impact the fields they choose to enter and our communities when they leave Davidson.

What are you most excited about when you think about the future of your program?
The prospects at Davidson are exceptionally promising. There have been considerable enhancements made to both our indoor and outdoor facilities, with a comprehensive renovation of our indoor center and the introduction of an electronic scoreboard at our outdoor center. As we consistently increase scholarship funding, we are poised not only to compete at the A-10 level but also to make a significant impact on the national stage.

"Athletics Done Right:" What does that mean to you?

Davidson takes pride in its commitment to excellence, integrity and a holistic approach to sports, encompassing factors such as facilities, coaching, player development and overall support of the scholar-athlete experience.

You can make a gift, supporting any of our 21 Division I programs, at this link.

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