Blugolds Hire Hometown Tennis Ace to Lead Men's Program

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire has announced the hiring of Matt Boughton, a local tennis legend, to lead their men's tennis program. Boughton, an Eau Claire native and Blugold alum, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for the sport to his new role.

Elevating the Blugolds to New Heights

A Homecoming for a Tennis Trailblazer

Matt Boughton's journey with the sport of tennis has been a lifelong affair. As a high school player for the Austin Packers, Boughton honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for the game. After graduating, he continued his tennis career at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, where he donned the Blugold colors with pride. Now, Boughton returns to his alma mater, ready to impart his expertise and lead the men's tennis program to new heights.

Proven Track Record of Excellence

Boughton's credentials speak for themselves. For the past 17 years, he has served as the executive director and head tennis pro at the John and Fay Menard YMCA Tennis Center, where he has been recognized as a driving force in the local tennis community. In 2022, he was honored with the prestigious Janet Louer U.S. Tennis Association Junior Team Tennis National Organizer of the Year Award, a testament to his dedication and leadership.

Blending Passion and Vision

Boughton's appointment as the new Blugolds men's tennis coach is a testament to his unwavering passion for the sport and his vision for the program's future. "It's been fun watching these players grow as student-athletes, and now I'm excited to grow the team culture with them," Boughton expressed in the press release. His goal is to instill a sense of pride in the players, both on the court and in the classroom, as they represent the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

Expanding the Blugolds' Reach

Boughton's involvement extends beyond the Blugolds' campus. He currently serves as the United States Tennis Association's Northern Board president, a role that has allowed him to work with Team USA since 2016. His accolades include being a national runner-up in 2017 and being named the USTPA Wisconsin Pro of the Year and USTA Northern Pro of the Year on multiple occasions.

Building a Legacy

As Boughton embarks on this new chapter, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the sport. His passion for tennis and his commitment to developing student-athletes are sure to be the driving forces behind the Blugolds' success. With Boughton at the helm, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire can look forward to a bright future for their men's tennis program, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in the Eau Claire community and beyond.