Head coach Christine Bader will be entering her second year at the helm of the University of Evansville tennis program during the 2010 season. After coming off a successful first year, Bader looks to continue to build the program into a Missouri Valley Conference contender.
“My first season coaching was fun,” Bader said. “I really enjoyed working with all the girls. Last year we had several exciting wins. I will always remember beating Northern Iowa and Butler on the road both with scores of 4-3. Last year, every weekend was a new experience. I am now more comfortable with the conference, coaches and players from opposing schools.”
Last year, at age 22, Bader became the youngest head coach in UE’s Division 1 history. After finishing 11-10 and seventh in the MVC, Bader is looking to guide a team with five returners and three new faces.
“Entering my second year is very exciting,” Bader said. “We made many improvements during my first year, and I am excited to see what great things this team can accomplish this coming season. This year should be exciting because I will not be the ‘new coach.’ Also I am excited about bringing in our new recruits. The team got very close this fall and worked extremely hard. Pin Sorensen has done a great job as captain. She really has rallied the team together! All the older girls on this team have stepped up as well, taking their own leadership role and helping the newcomers transition into UE and our tennis program.”
Bader graduated from Michigan State in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in business management. The Okemos, Michigan, native earned All-Big Ten honors her senior year, becoming just the third Spartan in MSU women’s tennis history to receive the honor twice in their career. She is only one of three Spartans to earn a national ranking, finishing her last year ranked at No. 113 in singles. Overall, the Spartans finished the 2008 season ranked 61st nationally.
Off the court, Bader earned Academic All-Big Ten honors three times during her collegiate campaign while also being named to the Dean’s list at Michigan State. Her poise and presence on and off the court earned her the Big Ten Sportsmanship award in women’s tennis in 2005 and 2007.
Bader has instructed youth with their development skills as a Nike tennis camp instructor at Michigan State, University of Alabama and the College of William and Mary. She is currently an instructor at Tri-State Athletic Club working with youth development.
Bader is also working towards a master’s degree in Health Services Administration at Evansville.
