Photo by Andrés Oyaga
Contributor
The SPHS Athletic Department named BioMed teacher Krista Gale as the new varsity girls’ tennis team head coach on Monday, July 22. This year will note their fourth consecutive coaching change.
Despite this year marking her first in coaching tennis, Gale is an avid fan and skilled player. She was recruited out of high school to play for the University of California Riverside Highlanders. Gale will fill in for Karina Ward, who left the position to dedicate more time to her family and real estate career. In her only year at South Pas, Ward led the Tigers to an overall record of 11-5 and the furthest round of CIF ever reached in tennis history.
“I never knew that this situation could ever be possible. It’s been quite hard adjusting to each coaches’ style,” rising senior Teryn Kum said. “Our team will have to be adaptable for another year.”
Still, athletic director Anthony Chan has confidence in the program and Gale’s ability to lead the team:
“Coach Gale has had previous coaching experience in both volleyball and softball. I am excited that she will be at the helm of our girls’ tennis program. She brings coaching knowledge, passion of the sport, and great dedication to our team.”
Gale will lead a team in a rebuilding phase; after losing three star seniors — Shannon Huang, Rachel Park, and Sheila Li — she will look to rehaul the roster and continue the Tigers’ success.
