The Lee University campus is mourning the loss of long-time coach and former faculty member Kay McDaniel.
McDaniel was a professor of health science at Lee University where she also served as coach of the tennis teams and held free tennis clinics every summer for over 30 years.
Tennis Clinic Award Ceremony
Before joining Lee University in 1991, McDaniel was ranked #1 in the nation as an amateur tennis player.
She played for Louisiana State University and then went on to compete at tennis’ Grand Slams for six years against players like Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert, and Steffi Graf, according to Lee University.
McDaniel would rank among the top 35 players in the world at the height of her singles career and rank among the top 20 in the doubles division.
Despite having severe health issues, McDaniel continued her tennis clinics after she retired from Lee University, helping hundreds of participants each summer until her 31st and final clinic in 2023.
McDaniel passed away on January 3, at age 67.
Visitation will be from 1:00pm to 4:00pm on Saturday, January 11, at Companion Funeral Home in Cleveland.
A memorial service will follow at 4:00pm with Reverend Kevin Mendel and Dr. Paul Conn officiating.
