MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois Athletics announced that Mashishka Washington will serve as the interim head tennis coach for both the men's and women's program during the 2013-14 season.

No stranger to the Leathernecks, Washington enters his third year coaching with both programs, serving as a volunteer coach in 2011-12 then elevating to graduate assistant coach last season.

"I am very excited about the opportunity of becoming the Interim Head Coach for the men's and women's tennis program at Western Illinois for the 2013-2014 season.  With a core of returning players from last season, along with the addition of our incoming freshman and transfer students, I believe that we have the potential to produce some positive results. There is a new level of energy and enthusiasm for the upcoming season which helps to create a positive environment amongst our players,” said Washington. “It is very important for our tennis program to remain diligent with their academic achievements while maintaining a strong level of athletic performance.  We are looking forward to what the future holds."

Last year the men's team earned a spot on the All-Summit League squad, and another earn Academic All-Summit League accolades (Mitch Granger). The men's team fell just short of a 'Top 4' finish and qualifying for the postseason tournament.

Washington began his coaching career after playing for 12 years on the ATP Tennis Tour. Washington competed in events in: North America, South America, Europe and Asia. During the 1999 U.S. Open he competed in the main draw of the singles bracket. Washington has also played in events such as: Canadian Open, Brazil Open, and events in Washington D.C., Scottsdale, Memphis, San Jose and Indianapolis.

A standout player during his collegiate career, Washington competed in tennis at Michigan State for two seasons, winning the fall 1992 title at the Notre Dame Invitational and fall 1993 Ball State Invitational. In 1994 he qualified for the NCAA nationals. He became the first singles player in Spartans history to earn All-America honors.

His playing career began in his younger years, competing in USTA sanctioned events and earning a national ranking as a singles player. He advanced to the finals of the boys 18-under Indoor Nationals in 1992, and singles semifinals in the 1993 18-U Nationals.

He earned his bachelor's degree in Communications from Michigan State in 2009, and is currently finishing his degree requirements for a master's in Communications.

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