Henrique Leal was named head coach of the Illinois Springfield men’s and women’s tennis programs in 2025. He brings a strong background as both a student-athlete and collegiate coach, with previous coaching experience at Averett University and Catawba College.
Prior to arriving at UIS, Leal served as the assistant men’s and women’s tennis coach at Averett, where he helped guide the women’s team to its first-ever ITA national ranking and its highest regional ranking in program history. He was responsible for a wide range of duties, including practice and match planning, recruiting, and supporting international student-athletes.
Before his time at Averett, Leal spent a season as an assistant coach at Catawba College. There, he helped lead the women’s team to its first-ever ITA Division II national ranking. In addition to his coaching responsibilities, he was actively involved in team operations, recruiting, and fundraising efforts.
Leal played collegiately at both Belmont Abbey College and Catawba College. He earned his bachelor’s degree in sport management with a minor in marketing from Belmont Abbey and later completed a master’s degree in sport management at Catawba.
A native of Sao Paulo, Brazil, Leal is known for his strong leadership, competitive mindset, and emphasis on building a team culture rooted in accountability, character, and excellence. His coaching philosophy focuses on holistic development—helping student-athletes succeed both on and off the court.
Leal succeeded Ross Graham, who served as interim head coach for three years and helped maintain stability during a key transitional period for the program.
