SALEM, W.Va. — Salem University Director of Athletics Alex Joseph has announced the appointment of David Leo as Head Coach of the Tigers' men's and women's tennis programs, effective August 2026.
Leo brings more than a decade of coaching experience and a proven record of building championship-caliber programs while emphasizing student-athlete development on and off the court.
A longtime Williamstown, West Virginia resident originally from Dallas, Texas, Leo began his coaching career in 2013 and joined Williamstown Middle/High School as assistant varsity tennis coach in 2016. During his tenure, the Yellowjackets became one of West Virginia's premier tennis programs, capturing four WVSSAC Class AA-A State Championships from 2021-25, including boys' titles in 2021, 2022, and 2024, and the girls' championship in 2025. Williamstown also earned two state runner-up finishes, won 15 regional championships, produced seven individual state champions, and had eight All-State selections.
Leo joined Salem as assistant coach for both tennis programs during the 2025-26 academic year, where he played a key role in recruiting, player development, and strengthening the programs' connection to the Salem community.
As head coach, Leo plans to build a culture centered on excellence, accountability, academic achievement, and competitive success while continuing to elevate Salem's presence in collegiate tennis through recruiting and player development.
"First and foremost, I would like to thank Salem University for entrusting me with the opportunity to lead our men's and women's tennis programs," Leo said. "Salem University has a proud tradition of athletic excellence, and I am honored to be part of that legacy. I look forward to building championship-caliber programs that our student-athletes and the Salem community can take pride in."
Leo emphasized that academics will remain the foundation of the program.
"Our responsibility is to ensure our student-athletes succeed in the classroom first," Leo said. "We want to develop champions on the court, in the classroom, and in our communities while preparing our student-athletes for success long after they leave Salem University."
