This season the Girls Tennis Team is under new management, as ASL teacher Sharon Bailey takes the helm.
There was a great deal of uncertainty heading into the season on who was going to coach the Girls Tennis Team in 2014.
The same problem plagued the team last year, as they didn’t have a settled coach until midseason. The assurance of having a coach that the team can build a relationship is very important for the girls.
“We know we are going to have a coach, it’s a good thing,” said sophomore Natalie Pham.
Bailey is looking to take over after an impressive 20-0 season in 2013 behind senior talents Morgan Yang, Molly Prins and Michelle Gobar. Because of all this graduating talents, Bailey is focused on rebuilding and regrouping this season.
“We are starting to build a strong, tight team to grow together. We want to create a strong team to represent our high school,” said Bailey.
The new coach Bailey has had experience coaching before. She has coached 3 other sports, ranging from swimming, softball and hurdling for track.
She also has a degree in physical education and health. She had originally planned to teach PE and health, but has decided to teach ASL instead.
“My first love is sports…I would play tennis all my life,” said Bailey.
Bailey has gotten to know her new players through meetings, tryouts and other offseason activities. Both the players and coaches are concerned with making a good impression on each other. The team is excited to work with their new coach.
“She is very nice and she likes to hear our opinions” said Pham.
Bailey is also very impressed with her new players this year, just from the tryout process and the beginning of the season; she can tell why they had so much success last year.
“I just love [the girls]. I’m amazed at the skill level,” said Bailey “They have a very professional attitude.”
Bailey has described herself as a no-nonsense coach that likes structure and discipline. Lots of hard work and practice are keys for her system and method.
She hopes this structure and method will help get the most out of their time after school.
“I want to get as much time in practice as I can, and get the girls ready for games,” said Bailey.
With a new coach and a lot of graduating talent last year, Bailey isn’t expecting another perfect season, but she does want effort and improvement.
“My ultimate goal is for the girls to do their best. I’m all about showcasing what you have in your arsenal,” said Bailey.