It’s a new era for Evanston Boys Tennis. Leanne Baker has been named the next head coach of the varsity program and is preparing to take the team to the next level.
Baker certainly has the experience for the job. She has been coaching tennis for 10 years, including 8 years at ETHS. She has successfully led the girls’ varsity team for 4 years, during which several players advanced to state. Baker is also familiar with the boys’ program, having coached the freshman team for the last couple of years.
“I’ve seen a lot of the boys go through the program, and I know many of the kids already in the program,” stated Coach Baker.
Before becoming a coach, Baker had a successful 13-year playing career, with accomplishments such as being ranked #1 in the world for Junior doubles and competing in all four Grand Slam tournaments.
“It was very, very hard work,” said Baker of her playing career. “There was a lot of traveling, but it was full of great experiences along the way.”
These experiences—playing against some of the best tennis players in the world and being coached by top-class professionals—have shaped how she coaches at Evanston today.
“There’s definitely that level of experience with her coaching,” said sophomore Noah Polansky, who played under Baker as a freshman. “She knows what to do in the little moments, how to close out a match, how to handle different situations, and just good coaching throughout. That comes from her career as a professional.”
Her professional experience also commands respect from her players. Knowing their head coach has competed at the highest level reassures players and boosts their confidence on the court.
“We understand that she knows exactly what we’re doing, and we know she’s great at what she does,” said junior varsity player Jesse Dush Hart.
A typical Baker practice involves a focus on fundamentals, combined with a high level of energy that players enjoy. Competitions are a key part of these practices, creating a competitive environment while helping players develop.
“There’s always something we’re playing for, and that just motivates people to do even better,” stated Polansky.
While players enjoy Baker’s practice environment and competitiveness, there are still high expectations at each and every practice and match.
“My expectation is that every time they walk on the court, they give their absolute best,” said Baker.
These expectations may represent a shift from what the boys’ team is used to. There’s a belief within the program that Baker’s style will be more challenging than in previous years, but the team is ready for the challenge.
“I think it’ll be a little more challenging for the team,” said Dush Hart. “It’ll be a more serious environment, but I think it’ll be good for the team.”
A great coach is nothing without their players, and Baker understands this. She believes in communicating with her players and learning from them about what she’s doing well and what could be improved.
“I like athletes to have a voice. If they’re feeling something, I want them to feel comfortable letting me know,” stated Baker.
Although there are still many questions about what this new era will look like, the general feeling around the boys’ tennis program is one of excitement and hope for the future.
“I think people are excited and happy for the change,” said Polansky. “It’ll be an exciting season, and it’ll be fun to see how we do.”
