BGSU tennis introduced its 10th head coach in program history with an introductory press conference on Monday, May 18. Autumn Williams provides 16 years of coaching experience to the Orange and Brown after coaching at Texas A&M University-Kingsville for the past 12 seasons.
The introductory press conference, led by Williams and BGSU Director of Athletics Derek van der Merwe, laid the groundwork for Williams’ tenure with the Falcons. Williams addressed her plans for success, while van der Merwe expressed the pride held in BGSU athletics and the Bowling Green community.
Long-term success
During her head-coaching career, Williams has earned three conference coach-of-the-year awards, two NCAA regional appearances, and multiple accolades won by her athletes. She is also part of the inaugural 2026 USTA Women in Coaching cohort.
Two of her athletes have earned two conference Player of the Year awards, and another earned an ITA All-American accolade.
“I had to build a program. Every little thing that’s involved in the program is because of me, so I’m comfortable doing that,” said Williams.
Building on her past success, Williams plans to make a mark through unity, building teams based on the knowledge she learned along the way.
“I’m comfortable bringing people together,” said Williams. “I enjoy that process; I enjoy building teams.”
Being loud
Using her experience to create a winning program means being competitive and competing with good sportsmanship. According to Williams, that means not taking it easy on your opponent.
“I’m deeply competitive, but also come to work with a smile and gratitude in my heart,” said Williams.
Providing analysis to her comments during the opening statements, Williams believes in the ideas of resilience, reliability, and relentlessness. She wants her players to be competitive, competent, and coachable.
“Together, we are going to work hard to build confidence, strength, and character,” said Williams.
Considering the “strength in numbers” approach, Williams finds being loud to be the most effective method to use while on the court.
“It’s the only place you can scream and not be looked at like you’re crazy. You can’t scream in the boardroom after a win,” Williams said.
Resilience
Not only does Williams plan to be loud on the court, she also plans to express resilience to her players, highlighting the ways to bounce back from deficits.
“I have to be the leader in that department,” said Williams. “Because when things don’t go your way, I have to be the leader and be able to cheer on my team.”
Being resilient was a key factor she demonstrated; the tenacity needed to compete at the Division I level.
While not every set can go your way, Williams acknowledges the tone that needs to be set, and that tone for the team begins with the head coach.
Importance of education
While competing on the court, daily in practice, and throughout her athletes’ careers, Williams acknowledges the high academic standard of the tennis program.
“I have to figure out what they are used to scheduling-wise,” said Williams. “How do you prepare for class or during class?”
This is especially relevant with the high academic standard this season, with three athletes earning a GPA above 3.72.
“Other support staff, just getting them involved and then getting them involved in the department so they know other people can help them,” said Williams.
Not only will her athletes find academic success with their intelligence, but Williams seeks support from others to help her athletes succeed in the classroom, on the court, and in life.
