Calvary girls' tennis turned a season built on growth and resilience into a second-place finish in the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) Region 3 tournament. The result came through consistency, resilience, and steady improvement throughout the year. The team built its identity on growth and effort, working to improve skills while also keeping the game enjoyable. That balance helped Calvary become a competitive team by the end of the season, ready to win.
Calvary entered the season under new head coach Lori Phillips, who had never coached tennis before. She learned and adjusted throughout the year as she led the team through practices and matches. Coach Phillips focused on skill development while also building a positive environment. Assistant coach Del Rey supported the program with skill-focused training, helping players improve technically throughout the season.
Calvary Day School’s girls tennis team poses after a second-place finish in the GHSA Region 3 tournament. Assistant coach Del Rey (left) and head coach Lori Phillips (right) are pictured with the team. (Courtesy of Calvary Day School Athletics)
A motivational system called “Kahuna points” was also introduced, where players earned points for strong shots, effort, and good practice habits. The system created friendly competition and kept players engaged during practice. “When they have fun, they play so much better,” Coach Phillips said.
Juniors Ella Phillips and Chomchanok Chaichumporn were key contributors throughout the season, often playing important roles in singles matches.
“I handle pressure by staying calm and knowing there are people there to support me,” Phillips said. She added, “No matter what, win or lose, it’s not the end of the world.”
Calvary Day’s Ella Phillips serves during a match in the GHSA Region 3 tournament. (Courtesy of Calvary Day School Athletics)
Chaichumporn explained how her confidence grew as the season went on. Early in the year, she was not confident in her game, but through coaching and experience, she developed stronger technical skills and composure. She emphasized patience, saying, “It cannot always go my way, but I can change my perspective on how I approach matches.”
Calvary Day’s Chomchanok Chaichumporn serves during a match in the GHSA Region 3 tournament. (Courtesy of Calvary Day School Athletics)
One of the program's strongest aspects was team unity. With 17 players on the roster, Calvary built a family-like environment where everyone supported each other. Even players who did not compete in matches attended region play to cheer on their teammates, showing a strong connection and support.
Practices were held Monday through Thursday from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. Limited court space required the team to rotate efficiently so all players could get quality training time. Despite the challenges of a large roster and limited space, the team continued to improve throughout the season.
Calvary’s second-place finish represented more than a ranking. It reflected growth, resilience, and the development of a team that learned how to compete together at a higher level. Calvary will open GHSA state playoff play on April 23, hosting Fellowship Christian.
Photo credit: Courtesy of Calvary Day School Athletic Department
Follow the Prep Sports Report on X @PrepSav and Instagram @savannahsportsreport.
To share scores, stories, or corrections, email kdemasi@prepsportsreport.com or text 912-507-9158.
