Sally Hosley hits slams

PHOTO: Tennis coach Sally Hosley stands with her players on senior night. (Courtesy: Noa Vinokurov)

By Elise Wyman,

BlueDevilHUB.com Staff–

The courts are empty, the sun has just risen over the horizon, and it smells of cement. Sally Hosley is starting her day on the tennis courts.

Hosley is the mother of three boys, and the Davis High varsity women’s tennis coach. Hosley picked up tennis at eight years old, when her dad started to teach her how to play. She went on to play in junior tennis tournaments in high school and then played tennis at UC Davis.

Hosley started her unofficial coaching career when she was only 15 years old, when parents would pay her to hit the ball around with their kids. “I’ve always enjoyed coaching,” Hosley said.

About 15 years ago, she took her Parent Teacher Association certification class and started coaching at DHS nine years ago. 

One challenge in coaching for Hosley is the change in mentality after having raised three boys. “Just the mentality of being with a group of females is an adjustment for me,” Hosley said.

“I feel like [Hosley] really wants to connect with us,” said sophomore, Noa Vinokurov, who played on varsity this season.

Hosley feels that coaching girls is different, but really good. “Most of the players like structure, they like boundaries, they want to work hard, and they want to work hard together as a team,” Hosley said.

Her team loves her back just as much too. “She is probably the most entertaining and fun coach I’ve ever had,” junior Reyna Shauman said.

When they have matches and practices, Hosley is known for her enthusiasm and optimism among players and other students.

“She’s very positive in all situations. Even if we’re down in the set or however the situation is, she’s super positive and encouraging,” sophomore Mehrsa Hassanzadeh said.

Of course, it’s not all just fun and games. While she is very fun and positive, it’s also hard work. “There is a level of discipline at her [tennis] practices, and you know you’re working hard, and that feels really good,” junior Francesca Saratini said.

Hosley is also widely appreciated outside of her players. “I think Sally is just an ultimate player’s coach,” DHS athletic director, Jeff Lorenson said.

Additionally, Hosley likes to share her wisdom with her players. “I think this is a really pivotal age for young women because they’re just trying to figure out who they are and what they stand for and how they interact with others and this is a good chance for them to be their true selves,” Hosley said.

The best advice she can give is to “try your personal best and be kind.”

Outside of tennis, Hosley enjoys running, playing with her dogs and hanging out with her family.