San Benito kicks off season at Gilroy on Wednesday
Hollister
After coaching tennis at Gilroy and Live Oak, first-year coach Chris Yoder is looking to equal the success he’s had in the past at San Benito.
Yoder is taking over a team that did not advance anyone to the Central Coast Section Championships last year, but already the ‘Balers have compiled a 2-0 record against Watsonville and Seaside.
“They look good,” Yoder said. “I like our chances … I’m looking to put them into a different mindset and to play more competively this summer.”
With sports practically year-round now, Yoder said he’d like to see more players competing on the USTA Junior Team Tennis in San Jose during the summer months.
“We need to take our game to the next level,” he said. “There is no short cut. It’s a process.”
Led by No. 1 singles player Derek Panger, the ‘Balers will look to surprise some teams this season. At doubles, San Benito will be led by D.J. Nielson and Jon Rudolfs who are returning from last year.
On Wednesday, San Benito will open the league season at Gilroy at 3:30 p.m., a team Yoder expects to be tough along with Palma and Salinas.
Said Yoder, “I like their chances against anybody until I see otherwise.”
