PRINCESS ANNE, Md. – The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Athletics department announced alum Walter Woods as acting men’s & women’s tennis head coach after, Benjamin Woods, stepped down.

“We thank Coach (Ben) Woods for his contribution over the past three seasons,” said Keith Davidson, UMES Director of Athletics.

Woods is no stranger to UMES tennis as he played four seasons in the Maroon & Gray (1985-89).  While serving as the assistant coach, he developed player personnel by encouraging and guiding student-athletes to reach their full potential academically and athletically. Furthermore, Woods was a two-year lettermen in tennis.

“I am excited for the opportunity be back home at my alma mater,” Woods stated. “I would like to thank Keith (Davidson) and my UMES family for having faith in me. Each day, we will strive to elevate our abilities and set goals that we can accomplish on and off the court.  We’re going to get better and more focused on being a stronger competitor within the MEAC Conference.”

Woods graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History from UMES. In 2004, he earned a Master of Arts in Organizational Management at the University of Phoenix. Currently, Woods is pursuing a Ph.D. in Non-Profit Management & Leadership from Capella University with an expected graduation date in 2017. He is the father of two daughters; Jessica age 15 and Xaniya age 13.

This season, the women return four players, led by Melequa King. On the men’s side, Maryland Eastern Shore bring back four Hawks, including the team’s No. 1 Michael Cha (Seoul, Korea).

“We’re glad to bring Walter (Woods) on board,” Davidson added. “His passion and knowledge for the game will improve are tennis programs in years to come.”