At Pahrump Valley High School, the tennis program is more than just a sports team; it’s a family. Head Coach Michael DelaRosa, who has been at the helm for five years, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for the game that has transformed the tennis program. Coach DelaRosa, known for his patient and methodical coaching style, has high hopes for this season, emphasizing sportsmanship, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence.
“The players just play the best they could for how many days, months, years they’ve been practicing tennis,” says Coach DelaRosa, setting the tone for a season focused on personal growth and collective achievement. His primary goals for the team are clear: win regionals and go to state. To reach these goals, the team has been working hard during the offseason, even though practices are not mandatory. “I show up two times a day, and whoever shows up, I try to teach them, work with them, get them better,” he adds.
Coach DelaRosa’s journey in tennis began in his youth, although he did not play competitively due to work commitments. His passion for the sport was reignited when his own children started playing, prompting him to return to the courts. This personal experience has shaped his approach to coaching, focusing on developing players from the ground up. “Patience is the biggest thing because I have to teach them slowly so they get the basics down, foundation down, form down, and then we speed it up,” he explains.
The team boasts several standout players, including Alexis Staples and James Delarosa, who are expected to lead the team with their skill and dedication. Additionally, the team has welcomed new talent, which Coach DelaRosa believes shows great potential. “Our numbers are good, so we have a full team, both sides. Our returning players are doing much better, so hopefully, we’ll improve from there,” he says optimistically.
One of the unique challenges the team faces this season is a bent pole on one of the courts, which has rendered it illegal for matches. “It makes that one court illegal ’cause it’s an inch short. So we only got four courts, and if one goes down, it’s not very good for us to play a whole match,” he points out. Despite this setback, the team remains focused and determined.
The senior players play a crucial role in the team’s dynamics. This year’s seniors on the girls side, include Alexis Staples, Jemima (Jemi) Chavez, Chloe Sitter-Jones, Abby Amador. For the boys, he has James DelaRosa, Legend Reigns, CJ Jacks. These seniors have grown under Coach DelaRosa’s guidance and are expected to lead by example. “They learned through the four years, and now they’re really, really good,” he says proudly.
Team chemistry is vital, and Coach DelaRosa works hard to foster a positive environment. “We try to squash any negative talk because we’re not like other sports where you could talk smack. This is a gentleman or women game, so everything’s got to be nice,” he emphasizes. His philosophy extends to teaching individual responsibility and great sportsmanship, essential elements for building a cohesive and respectful team.
Assisting Coach DelaRosa is Mr. Trent Curtis, an English teacher at the high school, who shares a similar background in tennis. “He’s dabbled like I did when I was young, and he just wanted to help me out. He’s learning and brings a positive attitude and willingness to learn and help out,” Coach DelaRosa says, appreciating the support and enthusiasm Mr. Curtis brings to the program.
As the season approaches, Coach DelaRosa is particularly looking forward to matches against Boulder City and Moapa, which have long-standing and distinguished programs. These matches will be a true test of the team’s progress and determination.
For the fans and supporters of the PVHS tennis team, Coach DelaRosa extends an invitation to come out and enjoy the matches. “Hopefully, they could come out and check us out. It’s pretty fun; it’s just warm, but we try to provide shade for the fans and food and cold water. We’re all proud of the kids because they work hard and enjoy it. It’s a fun sport,” he says enthusiastically.
With a full roster, dedicated coaching, and a strong sense of team spirit, the PVHS tennis program is set to make significant strides this season. Coach DelaRosa’s leadership and vision continue to inspire both players and supporters, building a tradition of excellence and sportsmanship on and off the court.
