The Park Hill girls tennis program is preparing to write the latest chapter of a living, breathing story with a proud history and culture.
Tim Kalis will lead the Park Hill girls tennis team for the 16th year as head coach. He has been infusing the history and values of the program into the team this year, encouraging his athletes to set out for memorable goals.
“We have been blessed to experience consistent success since the 2000s,” Kalis said. “This said, representing your tennis team is a commitment and it is a privilege.”
To further exemplify and set the tone of Park Hill tennis, Kalis has two alumni of the program on his coaching staff, Elaine Corbin and Curtis Bicknell. New to the coaching staff this year is Caleb Book, a former Baker University tennis player who previously coached at St. James Academy.
The Trojans have more than 60 athletes out for girls tennis this year and return four varsity players from last season, including seniors Andi Osborne, Addie Worden and Josie Marshall as well as junior Eladie Marshall.
“While we may not have as much experience as some of our competition, we believe we have the talent and depth to compete with the schools on our schedule,” Kalis said. “The coaches and I expect our players to show heart, grit and pride every time they step on the court."
The Trojans have numerous players who could earn time in the varsity lineup for specific matchups throughout the season, including Anna Chambers and Laney McCabe. Kalis can feel the balance of leadership forming a team identity that he likes.
“We have competitive players throughout the lineup, and they push each other to improve daily,” Kalis said. “Just as important, they support one another and are committed to building something bigger than themselves.”
Kalis is pleased with the effort and progression his players have made over recent months and years. The Trojans hope to battle to a winning record for the first time since 2022.
Park Hill opens the season in the first week of September, where they have away matchups against Staley and Liberty North before hosting Kearney on Sept. 4.