After graduating two years ago, he’s come back to school.

But he isn’t working on his master’s degree. He’s back to coach.

Tom Lloyd, who was the captain of the Arizona men’s tennis team in 2001, ’02 and ’04, will be the assistant to head coach Tad Berkowitz starting this upcoming season.

In one word, Lloyd said he is “”thrilled.””

He is the perfect fit for the team, Berkowitz said.

“”He’s the kind of guy that really has a passion for what he does,”” he said. “”He loves tennis, and he loves Arizona. I’m really excited to have him back with the team.””

After working on the ATP Tour with his childhood friend Taylor Dent, who was ranked No. 21 in the world, Lloyd has returned to Arizona with much to share with the Wildcats.

“”Even though he is only 25 years old, he has great experience,”” Berkowitz said. “”He is young, but he has a lot to bring to the team.””

Lloyd said that he and Berkowitz plan on building the tennis program into one “”that’s going to be there for many years to come.””

Lloyd, who won 52 singles matches and 33 doubles matches as a Wildcat, said, “”It’s been a very warm welcome.””

This strong reception from the team has sparked great team chemistry already, Lloyd said.

“”There’s been no hitches or hiccups, and I couldn’t be happier,”” he said.

Since Lloyd graduated only two years ago, some of the players he played with will be under his guidance this year.

“”This transition from a buddy/teammate to an authority figure should be pretty smooth,”” Berkowitz said. “”The guys respect him.””

Said Lloyd: “”The tennis team is a family I left in 2004. It’s good to be home.””