West Virginia State University Athletics

Rico Williams enters his second year as the Head Women's Tennis Coach at West Virginia State University in 2023-24.

"We look forward to having Rico join our department as the next head coach of the women's tennis program," Burton said. "Rico understands the tradition of our women's tennis program and he is committed to living up to those expectations. He gained quality experience this year as an assistant coach, learning from JJ Casto and Jake Lorenz. We are incredibly thankful for all that JJ and Jake have done for the program."

Most recently, Williams served as the Head Tennis Professional at the YMCA of Kanawha Valley since 2017. He personally coached over 10 juniors who would go on to play collegiate tennis on scholarship. He also plied his trade as the Director of Junior Tennis at both the Ashland Tennis Center for three years and the Ritter Park Tennis Center for two years previously. Williams was tasked with building and growing junior programs in each area, running junior tournaments, and promoting junior tennis throughout the local communities.

"First, I want to thank Nate Burton for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the WVSU athletic staff," remarked Williams upon learning of his appointment. "I am grateful and excited to be the next Head Women's Tennis Coach at WVSU. I plan to do my best to build upon the winning culture here with a strong team foundation."

Williams was a four-year varsity collegiate tennis player for the Charleston Golden Eagles. As the team's captain, he led the men's tennis program to its first-ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Charleston in 2012. 

Williams has been involved with the Black Girls Play program since he started working with the YMCA. Williams actively participates in the program by promoting diversity in women's tennis and creating a more inclusive environment in the sport overall.