The Saint Paul’s tennis team is set to begin its 2024-25 season, and expectations are as high as ever. With a strong group of returning players, experienced coaching, and a history of success, the Wolves are ready to continue their legacy as one of the top teams in the state.

Led by coaches Brother Ken Boesch, F.S.C., and Brett Schwartz, the Wolves have become known for their consistent success season after season.

Brother Ken has been the head coach for 44 years. In his time, he has accrued two state championships (including recently in 2023), been named Louisiana Coach of the Year, and National Coach of the Year.

This season, Brother Ken claimed, “We have work to do, but I feel good.” His goal, besides winning the state championship, is to “instill fear and trepidation in other teams.”

Coach Brett, a recent addition to the coaching staff, brings a wealth of tennis knowledge, helping players prepare physically and mentally. Coach Brett has coached for 41 years, including the LSU tennis team.

Brett is also a published author. Together, he and Brother Ken boast a combined 85 years of experience, providing the Wolves with a strong backbone to succeed this season.

This season, 12 players will represent Saint Paul’s, with eight competing against other schools from around the state. The team is made up of a mix of experienced upperclassmen and talented underclassmen. While the graduation of two seniors did affect the team, the Wolves remain extremely strong.

Leading the team is captain Harrison Rollins, a senior with four years of varsity experience. Known for his composure and relentlessness on the court, Rollins feels “ready to teach what I know to the incoming players.” Three more seniors – Andrew Kraus, Trey Rather, and Landon Krebs –  will provide depth and experience. 

The Wolves are coming off a strong season despite losing six seniors the year before. Many players competed for the first time last year, and the team won districts, earned third in regionals, and fourth in state. These accomplishments illustrate the team’s depth while also providing experience for the upcoming season.

The goals for the season are clear: “Win it all,” according to Brother Ken. Achieving this will require a tremendous amount of strength, grit, and determination. Rollins aims to “win districts and do the best that we can in state.” 

Although the Wolves will face many challenges, they are confident in their preparation. Whether it’s a formidable opponent, unpredictable weather, or the pressure of a high-stakes match, the Wolves feel comfortable they will be ready.

“You have to believe in yourself when no one else does,” explained Saint Paul’s freshman Peyton Pear.

As the season approaches, the players have been hard at work preparing for competition through match play, lessons, and tournaments. With the support of their coaches and teammates, the Wolves are gearing up for another strong season, and the team will continue to represent their school with passion and determination.

The first matches of the season are set to begin in early February, and all eyes will be on the Wolves as they aim to add another chapter to their successful history.

Photo credits: Kimberly Krebs