New Era for Lawrence Tennis as Whitlinger Named Head Coach

Lawrence University has named Tate Whitlinger as the new Head Men's and Women's Tennis Coach.

Whitlinger brings nearly three decades of teaching, coaching, and leadership experience to the Vikings program and has built a reputation for developing athletes while fostering a culture of excellence, sportsmanship, and personal growth. "Tate's passion for the game and his commitment to developing student-athletes make him an outstanding addition to Lawrence Athletics," said James Downer, Assistant Vice President for Athletics.

Whitlinger has held the role of Head Tennis Professional at Fox Cities Racquet Club since 1999, where he has overseen daily tennis operations and instructed players of all ages and skill levels through private lessons, group instruction, clinics, and competitive training.

Whittlinger has previously served as an Assistant Coach at Lawrence, including this past season. His experience also includes serving as the Head Tennis Coach at St. Mary Catholic High School from 2016 to 2025, guiding student-athletes to sectional and state-level competition while emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and character development. In addition, he is a USTA Tournament Director, USPTA Certified Teaching Professional, USPTA Certified Pickleball Teaching Professional, and Safe Play Certified Coach. A highly accomplished tennis player, Whitlinger was a stand-out at Neenah High School, winning three consecutive state team championships while capturing a state doubles title and a runner-up finish in the state singles championship. He went on to play collegiate tennis at the University of Wisconsin and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. As a tennis professional, Whitlinger was awarded the USPTA Midwest Men's Open Player of the Year and later captured the USPTA International Men's Open Championship while also being named the USPTA Rookie of the Year for the Midwest.

"Throughout his career, Tate has demonstrated the ability to build meaningful relationships, inspire confidence, and create an environment where student-athletes can thrive both competitively and personally," Downer said. "We are excited to welcome Tate to the Lawrence family and look forward to the future of our men's and women's tennis programs under his leadership." Whitlinger will begin his duties in July and will oversee all aspects of the Lawrence men's and women's tennis programs.

"I am deeply grateful and honored to serve as the Head Men's and Women's Tennis Coach at Lawrence University," Whittlinger said. "To represent such an outstanding institution is a privilege I do not take lightly. I accept this opportunity with gratitude and humility, knowing the responsibility and trust that come with leading this program. My heart beats LU, and I am excited to help grow the tennis program into something truly special. I look forward to learning, growing, and serving alongside our student-athletes while building a culture of excellence, character, and purpose. The future is bright, and I am grateful to be part of the journey."