John Kessler arrived at University High from New York for the 2001-02 school year, taking over the boys and girls tennis programs.
He brought a simple approach with him.
“It’s the person first, the student second and the player third,” Kessler said of his priorities.
Sticking with that philosophy, Kessler guided the Trojans to the CIF-SS Division 1 championship a season after graduating four all-county players. It’s University’s third title in four seasons.
His efforts have earned him the distinction as the Register’s 2010 boys tennis coach of the year.
“Honestly, it’s a weird feeling,” Kessler said. “I know we have a good team and the expectation of what we should win with that much talent. Plus, there are so many deserving coaches with far less talent who do an outstanding job. And I think we do a good job and work really hard, too.”
The debate as to what makes the coach of the year is endless. But it’s difficult to argue the dedication Kessler has for the University program.
To be the best, teams must play the best. Kessler has always scheduled the toughest teams, never shying away from a match. That included playing the top teams when the Trojans were struggling between 2003 and 2005.
“We beat teams one year and we aren’t supposed to give them a chance to beat us the next year just because we are down?” Kessler said. “I don’t believe that’s the right thing to do.”
The program is its own community, as former players and parents often show up at matches offering support. Past players return and drill with the current teams.
For example, last year’s senior Michael Tang, now at USC, worked with the doubles teams in preparation for Santa Barbara in the CIF final this season.
“Kessler is always looking to help us out,” freshman Gage Brymer said. “He’s just always focused on getting us ready.”
Kessler brings in strength and conditioning coaches, as well as a sports psychologist, to develop all the players in the program.
As much as he does for them as players, Kessler’s impact extends far beyond the tennis courts.
“I think he really cares for us,” junior Kona Luu said. “He’s a great coach on and off the court. His chemistry with his players is really good.”
There’s a balance that comes with coaching the most talented team.
On one hand, there’s plenty to work with and finding a strong lineup is not difficult. On the other, there’s the responsibility of keeping everyone happy and making sure the team is getting along.
“There’s a little bit of pressure with the team known for being at the top and knowing we are all good,” Brymer said. “He’s always putting out a good atmosphere around us.”
Tennis is good at University these days and the winning is nice.
In the end, here’s what Kessler enjoys the most:
“Bottom line, here’s what makes me happy,” Kessler said. “I can’t tell how many parents, coaches and players came up to me (at the CIF finals) to say how well-behaved we were. We won with class. I think you play with class and that’s most important. That’s what I take away.”
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