A former standout with the Bryant University men's tennis team, Jose Rodriguez (Trujillo, Peru) has joined the team as an assistant coach for the 2011-12 campaign.

During his two-year career with the Bulldogs, Rodriguez became one of the most consistent and talented members that the program had ever seen.  A transfer from Missouri Valley, Rodriguez enjoyed instant success with the Black and Gold by winning the ITA East Regional Championship in 2008 and helped lead the Bulldogs to the 2008 Northeast-10 regular season and tournament championship with an undefeated record and berth in the NCAA tournament.

"Jose is one of the strongest players the men's tennis program has ever had here at Bryant," Gendron said after announcing the hiring.  "I am very pleased to add such a big asset to our very young team."

A 2009 graduate from Bryant, Rodriguez finished his senior season with a 23-14 overall record in singles play and a doubles record of 23-14.  The doubles partner of recent men's tennis graduate Cristian Balestrieri (Mar Del Plata, Argentina), Rodriguez will become both a mentor to the younger players on the team, and an invaluable instructor.

"[Rodriguez] was one of my favorite players in the past five years," Gendron said.  "He was a mentor during his time here, and I am confident that will continue into his coaching career."