Jeff Kader is the newest head coach at UTSA.

In just his first year at UTSA, though, he has the men’s tennis program in the thick of the Southland conference race.

What is the best part about coaching for UTSA?

For me, it is the interaction with the guys on the team. Being in a leadership role, I am able to help them with anything whether it is in the classroom or on the court. I am a part of their lives and have the ability to influence them. People forget that their families aren’t here, so it is nice knowing that I can help with giving them a home away from home.

When and how did you decide to become a coach?

I always knew that I would be a coach and it was through playing tennis at the College of William and Mary in Virginia that I decided I would stay in the game by coaching the sport after graduation.

If you weren’t a coach, what profession would you choose?

I would probably end up being a teacher for high school or middle school, teaching any subject but math. I would stay away from math.

Who is your biggest influence?

My father was my coach growing up. He lives in South Carolina right now, but he considers himself the volunteer assistant from outside of San Antonio. He is definitely part of the coaching staff, unofficially.

What is your favorite travel spot?

I would say Hawaii. It was really nice.

What is your favorite moment in sports that you have been a part of?

As a player, my senior year in college, we won conference championship for the first time. When I coached at North Carolina State, we made it to the NCAA quarter-finals as a team. Both were very memorable moments in my tennis career.

When you are not coaching for the Roadrunners, you are…?

I am at home with my wife. I don’t have a whole a lot of down time so when I do I just like to stay home and enjoy the little time that I do have spending it with her.

What is your favorite sports movie?

I love any of the Rocky movies. I did recently watch The Fighter and thought that was a great movie.