ATHERTON, CA — Menlo College Athletics is excited to announce the promotion of Rudy Abitago Jr. to Associate Head Coach of the Men's and Women's Tennis programs, following his third highly successful season as Assistant Coach. This move recognizes Abitago's dedication, skill, and the exceptional impact he has had on the Oaks since joining the program.
 

In the past season, the Menlo Oaks placed 2nd in the GSAC standings, with standout performances from both the men's and women's teams at the GSAC Championship Tournaments. Coach Abitago's remarkable contributions to the program were recognized when he was named ITA West Region Assistant Coach of the Year for his outstanding leadership and coaching abilities.
 

Entering his second season with the Oaks, Abitago played a pivotal role in helping both the men's and women's programs deliver unstoppable performances in their inaugural seasons. Alongside Head Coach Ben Cabell, Abitago guided the teams to strong showings in the GSAC Playoffs. The women's team in particular thrived under his guidance, finishing the season with an impressive 12-4 record and earning a spot in the conference championship match. The women's team also maintained a Top 25 NAIA ranking throughout the season.
 

Menlo's success can be largely attributed to Rudy Abitago's coaching style, which has been instrumental in the growth of the college's athletic programs. Under his and Ben Cabell's guidance, Menlo athletes have achieved remarkable milestones, including Valentina Urelli Rinaldi being named ITA West Region Senior Player of the Year last season. Abitago's leadership has also fostered an environment that nurtures young talent, as evidenced by Robin Mcalpine and Livia Harper both winning GSAC Freshman of the Year honors for their exceptional performances on the Men's and Women's teams, respectively. Their collective achievements highlight the strong coaching and development system at Menlo. 
 

"Rudy's promotion to Associate Head Coach is a well-deserved recognition of his commitment to excellence," said Ben Cabell, Director of Menlo College Tennis. "Coach Abitago has been the right hand man behind Menlo Tennis. He has been instrumental in the development of players while also leading teams on his own when the men and women find themselves traveling on separate schedules. This acknowledgment is much deserved!"
 

Abitago brings over 12 years of coaching experience, including a certification as a USPTA Certified Professional/High Performance Coach. A former top-level player in juniors, high school, and college tennis, Abitago's competitive career was cut short by injury, leading him to channel his passion into coaching. He has since worked with players of all levels, guiding athletes from their developmental stages to competing at elite junior tournaments, including Kalamazoo, Easter Bowl, and the Orange Bowl.
 

Before joining Menlo College, Rudy coached at prestigious academies in Northern California and the Intermountain Section, as well as serving as a Team Bryan coach for the NJTL Excellence Team, which provides tennis opportunities to underserved youth.
 

Menlo College Athletics looks forward to Rudy Abitago Jr.'s continued success as Associate Head Coach, where his expertise and passion will continue to inspire the next generation of Oaks athletes.