RICHMOND, Ky. - Eastern Kentucky University Athletics Director Jeff Long has announced that Tom Higgins has been named interim men's and women's tennis coach at EKU for the 2000-2001 season.

"Our attempt to find a successor to Coach Higgins proved more difficult than expected," said Long. "We are grateful that Coach Higgins loves EKU enough to step out of retirement to once again lead our program. We will continue the search for his successor throughout the academic year."

Higgins retired from the post this past June after serving his 28^th season as the Eastern men's tennis coach and the seventh as the University's women's tennis coach.

"I'm tickled to be back at Eastern," said Higgins. "I've never been happier to take on more work. With the start of school upon us, this is a very busy time with scheduling, beginning practice and seeing about our players' needs. But we'll have it all taken care of and be ready to go when our fall schedule starts."

During his tenure at Eastern, the Colonels have won 339 men's dual matches, ranking Higgins 14^th among active Division I coaches in the nation in wins.

The 2000-2001 EKU tennis squads will be led by seniors April Dixon and Tara Williams on the women's side and seniors Brad Herrera and John Forrester on the men's side.

"I felt a continued obligation toward the seniors, so this is going to be good," said Higgins. "These four players will be the leaders and the heart and soul of both teams and I'm glad to be back coaching them again."