Peter Smith Named National Coach of the Year

USC head coach Peter Smith has been honored as the USPTA College Coach of the Year. After leading the Trojans to their fifth NCAA Championship in six seasons, Smith was honored for the second time in his coaching career.

After leading USC to their 100th Team National Championship, Smith collects a second national coaching award (2011) as one of the premier mens tennis coaches in the entire nation. Head coach Peter Smith is now the men's tennis program's second winningest coach, holding five NCAA championships behind the 10 won by George Toley.

The USPTA honored those who stand out and go above and beyond in all aspects of the tennis industry. USPTA, the world's oldest and largest association of tennis-teaching professionals, recognized tennis coaches, industry leaders and volunteers during its annual national awards presentation at the Tennis Teachers Conference in New York.

Known for his ability to connect with players both on and off the tennis court, Smith has become an exemplary figure in the USC coaching circle. Alongside legendary coach Jovan Vavic, the Trojans have seemingly dominated the tennis and water polo circles over at Uytengsu Aquatics Center and Marks Tennis Stadium.

Congratulations to @USCMensTennis head coach @PeterSmith49 who was named the National Coach of the Year by the USPTA. pic.twitter.com/0WIE7VmhXR

— USC Trojans (@USC_Athletics) August 26, 2014

Smith has compiled a 540-205 (.725) career coaching record and is 270-70 (.780) at USC, which leads the nation with 21 national men's tennis team titles. His Trojans have made eight straight NCAA appearances entering 2015, with five titles, three quarterfinal appearances and eight top-10 final rankings during that stretch

His son, Tanner, has enrolled in USC this semester and will be on the tennis team this upcoming season.