The JV tennis team has seen a change in leadership this season with new coaches to guide the players. John Nguyen is committed to helping the players grow, emphasizing the importance of motivation and positivity John Nguyen said. Quang Nguyen also wants the players to build from the ground up, so that they are ready for varsity Quang Nguyen said.
The JV tennis team struggled to find a coach and risked getting cut, so it was important that he volunteered to be a coach, John Nguyen, JV girls’ assistant tennis coach, said.
John Nguyen admits his tennis background is limited.
“I only have a recreational tennis background,” he said. “But I knew it would have been unfortunate if JV got cut, so I stepped in to help make sure the team could continue.”
John Nguyen says he focuses his energy on building a positive team environment.
“At the JV level, everyone is just starting, so my goal is to make sure they have fun and learn the sport at their own pace,” he said.
Nguyen’s coaching philosophy is rooted in motivation and participation rather than pure technical mastery John Nguyen said.
Nguyen said his communication style reflects his focus on getting the players to enjoy playing.
“Players see that they can communicate say, transparency,” Nguyen said. “I also like to approach it as a team leader. So for instance, I’m not going to dictate. What are we going to do in practice? It’s more like, ‘All right team. What do you think as a group?’”.
Sophomore Surbhi Jain, who has been playing for two and a half years, praised the coaches’ supportive attitude.
“The JV coaches are really fun and amazing,” she said. “They help us as best as they can and keep a really positive attitude, which makes a big difference when we’re under pressure.”
The players have responded positively to the new leadership, Jain said.
John Nguyen emphasizes the importance of applying lessons you learn in sports later in life.
“The nervousness you feel in—that’s something you’ll face later on, whether it’s a job interview or another challenge,” Nguyen said. “Learning how to handle that early is valuable.”
Quang Nguyen, the JV tennis head coach, has played tennis since eighth grade and played for the MHS High School varsity team.
Quang Nguyen’s main goal is to “build the team in the JV level, and create good habits and good technique so they learn how to play – not just learn how to hit, but learn how to play,” Quang Nguyen said.
Quang emphasizes the importance of fundamental skills, particularly footwork, which he considers crucial for tennis success Quang said. “
Tennis is about repetition,” he notes. “If you can get into position, you have a chance to hit the ball right.”
His primary goal is to instill good habits and techniques and prepare the JV players for a future on varsity.
With their combined efforts, Coach Quang and Coach John hope to make a lasting impact on the JV tennis team.
“We’re working hard – even on the hot days – and we appreciate all the support from our coaches,” Jain said.