Shayne Hull, the JV Head coach of the storied Trinity High School tennis program, sat down with ECHO to discuss the construction of the new Trinity tennis courts just down the street from our campus.
In the past, Trinity has practiced at Springhurs
t and Tom Sawyer, but for the last two years they have practiced at Waggoner High School. The commute was a major setback for the tennis Rocks, leading to countless delayed or canceled practices. Additionally, there hadn’t been much room for fan support in the past, as Waggoner does not have bleachers by their courts, and a trip to Springhurst or Tom Sawyer isn’t nearly as convenient as a stroll down the road for many Trinity students.
These courts are being built over one of the old football practice fields, parallel to the firehouse. Five courts are being built, made possible by generous donors as well as the Trinity Foundation. The goal is to have these courts done by February 15th (the tryout date for t
he 2024 Trinity Tennis team). The construction of these courts will include a covered concession stand, bathrooms, scorecards, permanent benches, bleachers, and potentially a film tower, which will be used to record matches. The only thing the facility will not have will be lights.
Hull believes these courts will have an “incalculable” effect on the Tennis Rocks. An on-campus tennis facility used solely by Trinity coaches and players means a surplus of home games, no commute, and significantly less canceled practices. Additionally, this will allow the Varsity and JV Rocks to practice together, which Hull says will have a huge impact. He believes this will be very influential to the development of the younger players, as well as team chemistry and cohesion. When asked if there is such thing as a home field advantage, Hull said yes, “to a degree.” He compared the situation to how U.S. players feel very comfortable at the U.S. open, mainly because of the support they have behind them. However, Hull said, “a good tennis player can play anywhere,” and his players should have the same success at home as on the road.
Looking to the future, Hull urged Trinity students to get out and come to a match this year. He said there will likely be a marquee event this Spring, and the Trinity – St. X tennis match is always very well attended. So, Trinity students, come out to the brand new tennis facility two blocks down the road to cheer on your 2024 TRINITY TENNIS ROCKS!
