Miller Middle School celebrates first-ever season of tennis | News, Sports, Jobs

PHOTO PROVIDED – The Marshalltown Community School District launched its first-ever Miller Middle School tennis program this summer, welcoming 34 student-athletes into the inaugural offering of the sport.

The 2025-26 school year marked a milestone for the Marshalltown Community School District as Miller Middle School launched its first-ever tennis program.

With 34 Bobcat student-athletes participating, the program represents a new opportunity for students to get involved in a lifelong sport while building important skills both on and off the court.

The opportunity arose when the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union moved girls’ tennis from the spring season to the fall, opening a window for the district to introduce middle school tennis. Marshalltown High School boys and girls tennis coach James Christensen proposed the idea to the MCSD School Board last spring, where it was met with unanimous approval.

Thanks to the dedication of two coaches, Jenny Butler and Chad Spear, the inaugural season was a success. Together, they guided a diverse group of students through their first competitive tennis experience, helping lay the foundation for what promises to be a strong and sustainable program. The team wrapped up its first season with a final match on Aug. 22, closing out a memorable year of growth.

“Going into the season, our goal was to provide a fun atmosphere where we could build on tennis fundamentals,” said Butler. “We had kids of all skill abilities, some had previously had tennis lessons and some were trying a new sport for the first time. I love that this provides students a low risk environment to try something new.

“It was amazing to see the growth during the season. There were lots of smiles leaving the court on Friday, with many sharing they would play next year.”

By introducing a middle school tennis program, Marshalltown is not only expanding athletic opportunities but also encouraging healthy lifestyles that can last a lifetime.

“I think it was a very successful season and I look forward to building on that for next year,” said Spear. “The kids were outstanding.”

Tennis offers much more than athletic development. Physically, it provides a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, agility, balance, and coordination. Mentally, the sport teaches strategy, problem-solving, and concentration, skills that transfer directly into the classroom. Students also gain emotional and social benefits such as confidence, resilience, sportsmanship, and teamwork while forming lasting friendships and connections.

PHOTO PROVIDED – The Marshalltown Community School District launched its first-ever Miller Middle School tennis program this summer, welcoming 34 student-athletes into the inaugural offering of the sport.