Sadness Clouds Virginia Tech Men’s Tennis Team as Their Beloved Coach Passes Away at Just 36

No aspiring player in any sport around the world can fare well if they don’t find a good coach. Great coaches are the reason players reach great heights. NCAA is also comprised of several amazing coaches who help college players achieve their dreams. As they spend much time together, coaches and students develop a deep bond which can make players feel bereft at the passing of a coach. Recently, Virginia Tech announced the tragic death of one of their assistant coaches, which left a deep impact on his players.

Another instance of a coach having a profound impact took place when Roger Federer met Pete Carter. The Swiss coach changed Federer from a brash and abrasive person to a calm collected and thoughtful man. Unfortunately, Carter passed away in 2002, just before the Swiss Maestro became one of the big three and Federer was left bereaved.

Virginia Tech mourns the passing of NCAA coach

Like Federer in 2002, several students of Virginia Tech are now mourning the passing of their coach. Martin Sayer, who worked as a men’s tennis assistant coach passed away at the age of 36 in his sleep. The cause of his death remains unknown, but he was star-studded in his career. Sayer donned the role 7 years ago in 2016 and achieved wonderful results with the team. He played a pivotal role in three key tournaments in 2016, 2018, and 2021.

The director of athletics, Whit Babcock mourned the coach’s passing. He stated, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sayer family and everyone impacted by the devastating loss of one of our own“. Babcock further stated, “Martin was a beloved member of our athletics family whose passion for tennis and unwavering commitment to our student-athletes were undeniable. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he impacted, both at Virginia Tech and Radford.”

Sayer had a decorated career with the Hokies. Under his tutelage, Joao Monteiro was able to reach the NCAA Singles Final Four in 2016, a stage no student of Virginia Tech had realized before. Prior to working with the Hokies, the late assistant coach worked as the head of the Radford Women’s tennis team for two seasons.

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During his time as a player, Sayer played as a member of Hong Kong’s Davis Cup team and was part of its most successful doubles pairs. Along with Brian Hung, he created a 4-1 record. He first represented Hong Kong in the Davis Cup in 2005.

Sayer created a fantastic legacy for himself working as a coach and even as a player. He will be remembered by many worldwide and live on in the memories of his loved ones.

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