MANKATO, Minn. --- Minnesota State Director of Athletics Kevin Buisman has named Tristen Bryant-Otake the head coach of the Maverick women's tennis team.

"I want to begin by thanking Jeff Thomae for his past year of service," Buisman said. "Jeff stepped into a difficult situation and guided the team to a very successful season, while helping to mentor Tristen. "We look forward to this transition and Tristen's ability to build upon a solid foundation already in place. This team is capable of continuing to grow and contend at the next level."

Hailing from Kailua, Hawaii, Bryant-Otake served as a volunteer assistant coach for the Maverick women's tennis team during the 2022-23 season. She helped the Mavericks to a 15-2 record, including a second-place finish in the NSIC standings with a 10-1 conference record. MSU would then advance to the finals of the NSIC Tournament for the second time in team history.

During the summer of 2022, Bryant-Otake served as a summer tennis educational coach with Tennis and Life Camps, where she worked with campers with a variety of skill levels.

Prior to joining the Minnesota State coaching staff, Bryant-Otake played one season with the Mavericks during the 2021-22 season. She finished her season with a 20-5 record, including a 17-5 record in No. 1 singles matches. She also boasted a 21-3 doubles record, including an 18-3 record with her teammate Avery Stilwell. Bryant-Otake would go on to receive All-NSIC First Team Singles and All-NSIC First Team Doubles honors and was named NSIC Player of the Week twice.

Bryant-Otake is thrilled by the opportunity to take over as head coach and sees promising things ahead for Maverick women's tennis. 

"It's an honor to be selected and continue my journey here with MSU Athletics," Bryant-Otake said. "Based on my playing experience, I know this team has the depth and heart to go far. I am excited to build off the amazing season we had last year and to see how far that momentum can carry us."

Bryant-Otake earned her bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from Western Kentucky in the spring of 2021. She later earned her Master's Degree in Sport Management from Minnesota State in the spring of 2023. Bryant-Otake will be assisted by Drew Hawthorne and volunteer assistant Lois Page, with Page having just recently completed her final season with the Mavericks, playing in the #1 singles and doubles spots this past year.