Ace Matias named BYU women's tennis assistant coach

PROVO, Utah – BYU women’s tennis head coach Lauren Jones-Spencer announced Ace Matias has been hired as the team's assistant coach.

“Ace has experience at a higher level and a good background and knowledge of the game,” Jones-Spencer said. “He was a team captain and a team leader. He will be able to help the girls pull out tough matches.”

The Torrance, California, native competed at No. 1 singles and doubles for UNLV and was ranked as high as No. 76 in the ITA. He was an all-conference singles and doubles player.

“I really want to bring energy and enthusiasm to the team,” Matias said. “I’m really excited to be in the college atmosphere again. I want to bring that enthusiasm to the girls and make sure they want to achieve the best they can.”

Matias started his career at Utah where he went 11-10 at Nos. 4-6 singles. Following his freshman season, he transferred to UNLV in 2013 where he posted a 24-8 overall record and tied for the team lead with 20 doubles wins. He went 14-8 with partner Bernard Shoeman at the No. 1 spot while quickly rising to the spotlight as one of the top players in the region.

As a junior, Matias went 18-5 at No. 1 doubles with partner Denys Pume. He tallied an 11-8 record at No. 1 singles his senior season.

Matias graduated in December 2015 with a degree in communications. He is the son of George and Nancy Matias and has an older brother and sister. His sister Dianne is currently the women’s tennis head coach at Cal State Fullerton.

“We’re excited to have Ace join our staff this year,” Jones-Spencer said. “I think that he’ll make an immediate impact with the team and help us to achieve our goals.”