BRISTOL, Tenn. – King University Vice President for Athletics David Hicks has hired
Taylor Graalman to lead the King University men's and women's tennis programs.
"Taylor has proven success recruiting students to small, private Christian colleges, and a track record for developing successful athletes," Hicks said. "His strong faith and commitment to developing student athletes as well-rounded adults aligns perfectly with King's mission and vision."
Graalman comes to King from nearby Milligan University, where he has been the head tennis coach after previously being an assistant coach and four-year captain for the Buffaloes. In addition to coaching at Milligan, Graalmann has worked at the Roton Point Tennis and Sailing Club as an assistant tennis coach, while also working at the Dale Short Tennis Academy and the Richland Country Club in Nashville, Tenn.
"My family and I are absolutely thrilled to join the King University family," Graalman said. "The opportunity to contribute to the already outstanding culture and environment at King, while also supporting my student-athletes on and off the court is an incredible opportunity. I am very grateful for the support from David Hicks and the coaches, faculty, and staff. I am very eager to help elevate the tennis program to new heights."
Graalman currently ranks fifth in Milligan history in singles wins (24) and doubles wins (29), and was named to the NAIA Scholar-Athlete team as a senior. In his three seasons coaching at Milligan, his teams combined for a total of 59 wins, finishing as high as fourth in the Appalachian Athletic Conference.
A native of Murfreesboro, Tenn., Graalman was a five-time state semifinalist at Siegel High School, serving as the captain and winning the 3AAA Male Player of the Year award in 2015. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration in 2020 from Milligan, before earning his Master of Education in Dec. 2021.
