Coach's Corner: Alex Dorato

By Andrew Krause

COURTESY SPORTS PUBLICITY OFFICE

Most Yale seniors wish they had men's tennis coach Alex Dorato's kind of commitment to a career path. "Some people just know what they want to do at an early age," Dorato said. "As far back as junior high school I just knew I wanted to coach tennis."

Dorato has spent his entire 14-year coaching career in New Haven, beginning as an associate coach for both the men's and women's programs before assuming the top position for the men's squad seven years ago. Coming off a fall season plagued by injuries and illness, the men have begun their spring campaign with 7-0 victories over Boston University and Colgate.

Dorato was a high school tennis All-American from Albuquerque, N.M., before earning four varsity letters at the University of New Mexico. His experience as a player shaped his coaching philosophy. "Even though we're a team, its important to remember that you're coaching individiuals," Dorato said. "You have to recognize what will make each one better, and that comes by getting to know everyone well." Dorato's athletes recognize this dedication. "He caters to the individual player and handles everyone according to their needs," team captain Reid Lerner, BR '99, said.

For Dorato, becoming acquainted with his players begins before they ever arrive in New Haven. Dorato believes building a good team is based 90 percent on recruiting, so he handles all aspects of the recruiting process himself. Scott Carleton, JE '01, was attracted by Dorato's commitment and personality. "Alex was a large factor in my decision to come to Yale. He was very easy to contact, and was very friendly during the recruiting process." Carleton added, "He recruited me directly and was the most honest and sincere coach I interacted with."

Dorato often sports a cowboy hat at practice, an accessory that conceals his distinctive shaved head and reveals his easygoing demeanor. "Coaching at Yale suits me well. I'm not the iron-fisted type. I'd much rather get to know my players and motivate them internally, rather than by yelling," Dorato said. "My teams here are always full of individuals who are very self-motivated."

One of the highlights of Dorato's career was a 1994 upset of Harvard. The Crimson was ranked nearly 60 slots ahead of the Bulldogs nationally, but Dorato's squad manged to grab a 4-3 victory. Harvard is the favorite to win the Ancient Eight again this season, but Dorato is confident. "We've got a good shot at the Ivy title this year," Dorato said. "Other teams don't realize how good we are."

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