The Saint Mary’s tennis team proved its worth on the court this season, finishing the season 18-8 overall and 6-2 in the conference.
Rounding out his 18th season with the Belles, head coach Dale Campbell is no stranger to the competition his team faces each year in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association and said the Belles made progress this season.
“We have made improvements with practice energy, patience in match play, improved mental game and composure on the court and just learned from our challenging opponents this year. Our belief in our abilities has grown as well,” he said.
The team had a balance of upperclassmen and underclassmen this year, which Campbell saw an opportunity.
“It is an advantage. Experience is always helpful, but I also think the juniors and sophomores support the leadership, and it creates a picture of gradual progress throughout a four-year career. I think the first-year student-athletes can see the evolution of a team member throughout their four years. Additionally, one group of leaders learns from the leaders before them,” he said.
One of the biggest things that Campbell emphasized was the leadership the upperclassmen showed the incoming players, including senior Emma Kealy. Kealy has received multiple awards over her time on the court, including All-MIAA Honors, Belles Athlete of the Week and MIAA Player of the Week. Kealy finished her final season with the Belles going 15-12 overall, 14-11 in dual matches and 4-4 in conference play.
“She has demonstrated that through sheer determination and a positive outlook, you can do anything that you set out to do,” he said.
Campbell also described Kealy as a role model for the incoming players.
“She demonstrates that playing a sport and being on our team is a privilege and something that you should cherish. She does not waste the opportunity that she has had. One can’t help but be motivated by her effort,” he said.
The Belles finished their conference play April 30 after falling 1-4 against No. 2 Calvin. The Belles finished second in the MIAA conference behind Hope College, which finished its season 8-0 in the conference.
