Brian Alden has an extensive resume of tennis accomplishments. Originally from Inverness, Illinois, Alden has played in numerous national tournaments all across the country. He ended up becoming a top 50 recruit in the country for his recruiting class and received a scholarship to the University of Illinois, one of the highest quality tennis schools in the United States. He was a doubles-specialist at Illinois and also a member of a team that made the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament. Eventually, after a string of transfers, he ended up at the University of Iowa where he played #2 singles and #1 doubles.

“My sister went to Iowa, and I always loved the campus,” Alden said. “My parents loved the Hawkeyes, and it was always a school I followed.”

After his collegiate tennis experience, Alden immediately knew he loved Iowa City and wanted to come back.

“Iowa City is a special place. I love the campus, the people, and the ped mall. There is always something to do,” Alden said. “It is a great small college town.”

Alden recently accepted a job offer as an assistant tennis professional at the Hawkeye Tennis and Recreation Center (HTRC), fulfilling his desire to return. He has thoroughly enjoyed his experiences teaching thus far.

“I love being able to have an impact on people’s lives,” Alden said.  “I want to make tennis enjoyable for them and have it be a time of their day where they can smile, laugh, and enjoy the game.”

Being an instructor at the HTRC means that Alden will be training current, and future, West High tennis players.

“I have always heard about West High athletics and their solid athletic departments,” Alden said. “I know they have had some good tennis programs, too.”

West High tennis players have enjoyed Alden’s presence.

“It’s really fun to hit with [Brian] because he’s really good,” said West High tennis player Sam Shin ’19. “I’ve already learned a lot from him.”

Alden wants to create players who have proper technique and fundamentals that will not break down in a pressure-packed situation with his guidance, and also develop a passion for competition within his students. 

However, he himself has found goals to strive for.  

“I want to be the best I can be everyday, always be there for my students, and make playing the sport an enjoyable experience,” Alden said.