Dennis Ralston (2015) - Hall of Fame

Dennis Ralston

Induction:
2015

Men's Tennis (1981-89, 1991-93)
International Tennis Hall of Fame
Tennis.com (Dec. 6, 2020): Remembering Dennis Ralston, 1942-2020: Tennis Renaissance Man

Dennis Ralston was head coach of the SMU men’s tennis team from 1981-89 and then again from 1991-93, leading the Mustangs to five conference championships and 209 wins. Ralston, who was named NCAA Coach of the Year in 1983, led SMU to six straight top-six national finishes, ending the 1983 season ranked No. 2 in the country, the highest-ever finish by a Mustang tennis team. The two-time SWC Coach of the Year also coached some of the best players in program history, including 1987 National Player of the Year Richey Reneberg. Prior to his coaching days, Ralston also had a stellar playing career, reaching the 1966 Wimbledon singles finals and winning five Grand Slam doubles tournaments, including three U.S. Opens. He is also a member of the International Tennis Hall of Fame. HOF SMU class of 2015.

Dennis Ralston delivers his acceptance speech (1:32:15)