HILO, Hawai`i—2019 Hawai`i Hilo men's and women's tennis coach Kallen Mizuguchi has officially taken the interim tag off his nameplate, announced today by Vulcan athletic director Patrick Guillen.

The homegrown Hilo resident stepped in to take over both programs last winter, just weeks prior to the start of the season. The men's team went on to place third at the NCAA Division II Championships, the best finish in the history of the program.

"I am pleased to announce that Kallen Mizuguchi's interim tag will be removed and he will become our permanent men's and women's head tennis coach," Guillen said.  "Kallen took over the reins of the program on short notice, took advantage of the opportunity and did a fantastic job."

The men were Pacific West Conference runner-ups this year, and then went on to win three national tournament matches before falling in the NCAA semi-finals to eventual champion Barry. They finished 15-5. The Vulcan women qualified for the conference tournament and ended the year at 5-12.

"I am excited to officially be the head coach for the upcoming season," Mizuguchi said. "This past season was challenging but satisfying, with both teams improving. I am excited for the this upcoming year, on and off the court."

Born and raised in Hilo, Mizuguchi played at Waiakea High School. He was ranked in the top three for the 18-and-under division in the state. He participated in numerous national tournaments and the Junior Davis Cup. He won a state doubles championship in 2010 while at Waiakea HS. He went on a successful career at UH Hilo, which included earning Third Team All-PacWest honors in 2015.

"Most important to me, our student-athletes had a great experience this past year," Guillen added. "I look forward to supporting and watching Coach Mizuguchi grow further in this role while we continue to build programs our community can be very proud of."

The squads will begin practice when school begins in late August, with matches to commence after the new year.

"We will have a good batch of returnees and some new faces as well," Mizuguchi said. "We finished last season on a high note and I would like to pick up where we left off.

"We live in a special place here in Hilo, with so much community support. I am very grateful to have this opportunity."