It was a great season for BCHS tennis. Those are words that have been spoken commonly over the past 34 years. That’s how long Brad Sanders has been BCHS head tennis coach.
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| The boys team. |
During his career, he’s led BC to 44 region titles, four state titles (three girls, one boys) and two state runners up (boys in 2017 and 2025.) This season, the boys finished 24-5.
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| The girls team. |
The girls, under first year coach Abby Belflower but with Sanders still involved during matches, finished 22-6. The girls made it to the quarterfinals. Both teams won region.
Tuesday night was the final awards ceremony Sanders would preside over. During his time on stage, he spoke of how great an honor it was to be the coach for all these years. He spoke of the many friends he’d made along the way.
While Sanders will be retired, he did express intent to remain involved with the program. He said he felt like there were things he could offer. Despite losing some good seniors, he believed both teams should have good seasons.
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| A look at some of people who came to celebrate Coach Sanders. |
There were no specific awards handed out. All players received plaques. Seniors received plaques documenting their individual careers. After Sanders ended his presentation, the honors for him began.
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| Kate Sanders reads something she wrote to pay tribute to her dad and coach when she played. |
A special slideshow was aired highlighting his career. There were numerous video tributes from former players. During the show, it mentioned another special surprise. Both teams moved to the back of the auditorium.
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| Former player and assistant coach William "Flip" Basby was one of many to share memoires. |
Entering was a contingent of people there to celebrate Sanders. Former players, longtime friends, as well as son Brennan and daughter Kate. The next 45 minutes or so were spent with people standing to share stories, share memories, with a man some referred to as a “father figure.”
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| After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed cake. |
It was a great night in the BCHS auditorium. The accomplishments of the tennis teams were recognized, and a legendary coach got a fond send-off to end his great career
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