Coach Highlight: Sedalia's Caroline Matz
College student, tennis player and talented coach Caroline Matz instills an encouraging and welcoming environment in her tennis community of Sedalia, Mo.
She grew up with two older sisters and a twin brother who have always played tennis, so naturally she played softball.
“I was deeply involved in softball, which was the same season as tennis,” Matz said. “My two older sisters and my twin brother were already tennis players, and in an effort to differentiate myself, I initially vowed never to pick up a racquet.”
However, seeking a shift in her athletic career, Matz transitioned from softball to tennis with the help of her high school tennis coach.
“By the summer before my sophomore year, I was ready for a change,” Matz said. “Our tennis coach had often encouraged me to give tennis a try, so I finally asked my sister for tips on how to hit the ball. Once I learned the basics, I quickly fell in love with the sport and started playing as much as I could.”
She continued to play throughout high school and competed in the occasional USTA Missouri tournament. Now as a student at the University of Missouri, Matz will continue to play tennis with the university’s club team.
Matz has also made the switch from player to coach. She dedicated two years coaching the Smith-Cotton High School boys’ tennis team and recently finished off a summer of youth clinics at Sedalia Parks & Recreation.
“This summer, I had a great experience running clinics for the first time (with my sister),” Matz said. “I was genuinely excited about the opportunity, and it was incredibly rewarding to see the progress of participants. I learned so much. Witnessing their improvement over the course of the clinics was a highlight for me, and it was fulfilling to see their skills grow and their confidence build.”
Even though the initial opportunity to coach was a surprise, she confidently rose to the occasion.
“My entry into coaching was somewhat unexpected but very rewarding,” she said. “The previous (high school) tennis coach had to step down right before the season started. Because I had maintained a good relationship with the athletic director, he approached me to see if I would be interested in stepping in. Coaching had always intrigued me, but it was something I hadn’t seriously considered pursuing. However, when the opportunity arose, I jumped at the chance.”
This opportunity came with an extra bonus of working with her older sister, Elizabeth. The pair grew up hitting together, so it was a perfect partnership.
“Coaching with my sister has been an incredible experience. It allowed us to grow not only as coaches but also as sisters,” Matz said. “We’ve always had a strong bond, and that connection translated seamlessly into our coaching. Working together on the court was natural, and it was amazing to support each other in this new role while guiding the team. Coaching alongside her has been an enriching and fulfilling journey.”
As her coaching style develops, Matz has found that one of the most important aspects of a great team is synergy between both the players and coach.
“My coaching style (is) democratic, emphasizing open collaboration between players and coaches,” Matz said. “While I recognize that as coaches we ultimately make the final decisions, I believe it’s crucial for players to feel valued and have the opportunity to express their thoughts and ideas. Coaches can see the big picture, but players often have unique perspectives and can offer great insights.”
Matz’s continuous dedication to the sport is fueled by her players. Seeing them grow and develop as strong athletes puts the fire in her own passion for tennis.
“It’s essential to remember the core reason for coaching: the players,” Matz said. “The opportunity to positively impact their development and share in their excitement throughout the season is incredibly motivating. I’ve been fortunate to coach athletes who bring enthusiasm and energy to the court, which fuels my own passion and commitment to coaching.”
Interested in coaching tennis? Click here for USTA coaching resources.
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