New staff, same returns

BOYS TENNIS Coaches Carl Flint and Troy Wong have replaced David Hamel, who led the Brahmas to an undefeated league record last year.

Sophomore+Michael+Tran+practices+in+a+preseason+game+under+new+coaches.

Eric Hong

Sophomore Michael Tran practices in a preseason game under new coaches.

Pauline Villegas, Asst. A&E Editor

Recently, Diamond Bar High School welcomed new head coach Carl Flint and new assistant coach Troy Wong as additions to the varsity boys tennis team.

Flint attended Valencia High School and UC Davis where he played tennis all throughout high school and one year of college. His passion for tennis never subsided and he found he enjoyed coaching.

“Every coach has their own coaching style. Coach Flint has definitely brought his own ideas and methods to the team and we, as a team, look to use the new styles brought to the table to win league,” senior captain Garrett Masuda said via Facebook.

Last season, Flint helped out the JV team as a favor to previous head coach Dave Hamel. When Hamel retired, Flint was offered the position. As new head coach, he hopes to build on the talent of each individual player.

“The team has a lot of talent, they’ve got really good players. I’m not looking to revolutionize anything that we’ve done,” Flint said.

Wong attended Alhambra High School and played on the tennis team there.

His son, sophomore Nicholas Wong began playing on varsity as a freshman. When the team started its search for a new assistant coach earlier this year, Wong saw the perfect opportunity to join the coaching staff.

“It was kind of a need at the time, they could use another person here to be here so the boys could practice. When the opportunity came I decided to take it,” Wong said.

Wong enjoys coaching doubles because of his experience.

“I’m trying to help here and there with strategy and helping the players think ahead of their opponent. I really want to focus on helping the kids learn how to play the game,” Wong said.

Flint is looking forward to this season alongside Wong.

“Coach Wong is a fantastic addition. Having high caliber coaches like him will give us more strategic options during practice and matches,” Flint said.