NEWS-TRIBUNE

Brad Hamilton, the new boy's tennis coach at Ballard High School, brings 23 years of professional experience to the program as the Beavers prepare for the 2005 season.

When he was a student at Penninsula High School, Hamilton joined the tennis team with no experience in the sport and rose to the top in singles and in doubles.

As one of four tennis professionals at the Forest Crest Athletic Club, Hamilton has given private lessons to kids as young as six years and adults up to 65 years old.

Hamilton belongs to the United States Professional Tennis Association and has earned his certification as a tennis professional.

A summer tennis program at Ballard High had a large turnout with 34 kids. Over 47 boys came to school with their rackets when fall practices began, hoping to make one of the12 spots open. The junior varsity (jv) team will have 22 players.

Those who don't make the team will be able to play with a new tennis club practicing after school.

The game of tennis is growing at Ballard and has really taken off, said Hamilton.

Mitchell Chavez and Sean Day are the top players, with Chavez the number one seed for the third year.

Hamilton acknowledges that playing the top player at every match is a tough way to learn and Chavez is up to the task.

"He's not new to the sport. He is a very good player," said Hamilton.

Chavez plays tennis year round and Hamilton said that is important for those wanting to be a number one player.

"It's like a plant that needs watering everyday," said Hamilton.

As the Sept. 11 season opener approaches against Lake Washington, Hamilton plans on fine-tuning the games of each player who is named to the varsity.

"We will enhance and make corrections here and there, break down players needs," he said.

The game of tennis is depending more and more on athleticism. Hamilton believes in adapting modern techniques like different grips to the game.

Hamilton takes over for Tony Richardson, who is now working as an assistant coach. Hamilton says his coaching staff is deep with Richardson and jv coach Chris Samuelson, who are with the United States Tennis Association.

Richardson is the former head coach at Nathan Hale and was a top singles and doubles player there as a student.

"We run a pretty tough program. I'm glad to have Tony around. His experience is helpful. It will make a difference on meet days," said Hamilton.

This is Hamilton's second year at Ballard. Last year he was an assistant coach.

"People at Ballard, the students and parents, are a really great group of people," said Hamilton.

The support from Athletic Director Doug Bruketta and Principal Phil Brockman is also unparelled, said Hamilton.