The yellow and gold leaves are falling as two very determined players are stretching and getting ready to start their first match. The ball is thrown up and sent flying over the net at the other opponent who quickly swings their racket at the small, yellow tennis ball as player lets out a low grunt.

  After 36 years of coaching, Coach Metzger is going for the gold before she retires. During Metzger’s coaching career, her tennis teams have qualified for Regional in the last four years.

  This year’s tennis team is getting ready to begin their spring season and are working towards bringing home some medals.

  As the season starts, the tennis team is doing their best in practice to become successful players.

  “We do many different kinds of drills during practice and are working hard to make up for lost time,” Metzger said.

  Since many schools start their tennis program before they get to high school, Metzger and her teams are trying to catch up.

  “My biggest challenge as a tennis coach is that I’m having to teach fundamentals to my athletes when other school have already been playing for years,” Metzger said.

  Although the lost time may create a setback for the team, these students go above and beyond to make up for it.

  “Even though we start later than everyone else, I have good, dedicated athletes who are willing to put in the effort and give their all,” Metzger said.

  In addition to these players being serious on the court, they also enjoy being around the fun loving atmosphere.

  “What keeps my players motivated is that they love the game,” Metzger said. “They like to have fun and tennis allows them to do that.”

  After a long run of great years of coaching, Metzger and her team are going out with a bang and aim to bring back some awards while enjoying themselves and creating some great memories.

   “My kids and I are very excited for this season and can’t wait to bring home some metals and finish the season strongly,” Metzger said.