The 2024 Evanston boys tennis season was one to remember. Finishing 7th at State, the Kits placed within the top 10 for the first time since 1978. This was made possible with the help of former senior Finn Pollard, who placed 5th in the state last year in one of the highest finishes in ETHS boys tennis history. With the graduation of Pollard and other State players, the team hopes to carry on its triumphs as new head coach Leanne Baker leads the team. Baker has led the girls’ varsity team for several years and spent a year coaching the boys freshman team. This season will mark her debut as the boys varsity head coach.
“I’m hoping that we can get close to the success we had last year. We don’t have one of the best players in the state like we did last year, but I think we can still be good,” said junior Jesse Dush-Hart.
With new faces and a new head coach, the program will look to establish leadership and culture throughout the whole team. Seniors Ethan Ravi, Ari Wexler, Drew Watson and Stuart Keely-Walker, along with juniors Will Klearman and Jesse Dush-Hart and sophomore Noah Polansky, are expected to play key roles in leading the team during the 2025 season. However, all returning players are anticipated to contribute and are prepared to step up as the team gears up for the season ahead.
For the past ten years, Baker has led the girls tennis program at Evanston, bringing with her lots of professional experience and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at the high school level. She emphasizes the importance of teamwork and a supportive culture as the foundation for building a winning mindset.
“Showing that they are just there to improve, but also to help their teammates improve, is huge. From there, it moves to helping each other off the court and in the community. A winning mentality comes from working together and raising each other up. Then you are not just playing for yourself but for your team and your school,” said Baker.
Adjusting to a new coach is always a challenge, but for this team, the focus heading into the season is building strong bonds. Both players and Baker agree that in a competitive environment, supporting one another is the key to success. Fortunately, this group already seems to be clicking, with solid relationships forming during the off-season and away from the court.
“I think this season is going to be a fun one. A lot of the boys are all good friends, and it’s going to be a great time,” said Dush-Hart.
The Kits aim to turn that camaraderie into success on the court. After an impressive previous season, the players are eager to follow in the footsteps of their former teammates. With a new head coach in charge, hard work and preparation will be crucial. Baker’s extensive experience will be a valuable asset for this young team, helping build high standards for the program.
The 2025 season will officially begin with an invitational match at OPRF High School on March 29th.
