Derek Schwandt

Biography

Coaching Philosophy We focus on developing people first. Off-court disciplines and character will be revealed on the court when we are tested daily. We support our team by building relationships and challenging them on and off court every day. We focus on developing players individually in a way that maximizes each athlete’s gifts, while building an inspired team dynamic. We believe in pursuing a strong base of physical conditioning. We seek to improve as coaches continuously, consulting with elite coaches and mentors. Recruiting Philosophy We recruit great athletes who have a deep love of the battle. Tennis is challenging mentally, physically and emotionally. The fighting spirit and the ability to respond to setbacks is so important. A player who loves the game and is a true competitor will keep responding no matter what. We recruit athletes who are teachable and have great work ethics. A hard working and humble athlete who receives coaching will improve continuously and sustain success in the long run. “The greatest talent an athlete has is the ability to learn.” -Toni Nadal About Coach Schwandt In Schwandt’s eight seasons at Liberty, The Flames secured back-to-back ASUN titles in 2021 and 2022, qualifying for the NCAA Team Championships in each year and secured the first-ever Universal Tennis NIT championship in 2023. Liberty has climbed to as high as the No. 39 ranked team in the nation in 2021. The Flames have posted a combined 82-57 record. Schwandt guided the team thro