Father and Son Face Off For First Time

Preparing for a match brings plenty of challenges for any college tennis coach. But preparing to coach a match against your own family? That brings a whole new set of thoughts and emotions. 

That’s exactly what happened for Kendell and Austin Hale on January 27. Kendall is the women’s tennis coach at University of Missouri-Kansas City. Austin, Kendall’s son, is the head coach at University of St. Mary in Leavenworth, Kansas. The two programs faced off for the first time, also marking the first time the Hales ever had the opportunity to coach against each other.

The elder Hale’s team emerged with a 7-0 victory, but one of his biggest takeaways was the pride he felt watching his son lead his team.

“It was really a surreal experience. We both had a great time even though we both are super competitive,” Kendall said. “He has a great group of girls that I know will get stronger every year.  It’s fun to see him in his element and how his team reacts to him and respects him. I could not be prouder! For your son to follow in your footsteps is one of life’s greatest complements.”

This is the first year of women’s tennis at St. Mary’s, so Austin has plenty of time to make his mark and grow with his team. For now, he will take the positives out of each match as he continues to follow in his father’s footsteps.

Kendell is obviously extremely proud of his son, but he takes extra pride in Austin’s ability to connect with and lead his players.

“He loves to be a positive influence on his players to help them not only with their tennis but with life skills,” Kendell said. “To me this is what coaching is all about! Using something you're passionate about and have a good influence on those that choose to trust you.”

Both coaches thoroughly enjoyed the experience of going up against each other, including some extracurriculars in the days leading up to the match.

“Of course we have had fun with this from different meme videos that I created and pictures,” Kendell said. “With two people this competitive you have to have your trash talk in there somewhere. All in fun though!”