Swampscott Public Schools Lead Nurse Emily Cilley has added coaching the girls tennis team to her list of responsibilities this season, and the Big Blue couldn’t be off to a hotter start.

Cilley has played tennis for decades, but she had never coached until she assumed the role of the boys tennis coach last year when the program needed someone to take the helm as the season drew close. Initially, Cilley wasn’t sure if coaching tennis was for her. But this year, when the girls needed a new coach, she decided to give it another go.

“So far, so good,” said Cilley.

The team has taken home the victory in all four of its matches, at the time of writing. Despite the strong record, it’s been a challenge so far, Cilley said. Especially trying to ensure each of the 20 athletes in the program get the proper amount of attention and coaching.

A cohesive group and positive environment surrounding the team leads to Cilley’s favorite part of the job: watching the athletes compete on match day.

“This is such a wonderful group of girls,” she said. “They are laughing all of the time. They enjoy each other’s company. I think of myself as a mama bear for them, making sure they get everything they need.”

Cilley said she is proud of the integrity Big Blue players have shown. In high school tennis, it’s on the players to referee their own matches, calling out when a ball lands out of play.

“We present ourselves with sportsmanship,” Cilley said. “They are fair girls. They are honest and patient. It sets a standard for players on the other side.

In her own playing experience, Cilley has encountered adult players that don’t always compete with sportsmanship or honesty.

“I just don’t understand that,” she said. “It’s something that has always been important to me. We let the girls know that being honest and fair is the way to be. Mutual respect between players and coaches goes a long way.”

Cilley believes the team has the talent and potential to build off of the momentum of the strong start and have a very successful season.

“We have a very strong team,” she said. “I have a confidence about us and our players. When we approach a new team, I’m not so worried that we won’t be successful.”

The team features freshman and sophomores who have made the starting lineup, along with experienced senior leaders.

“These girls have the potential to go pretty far,” said Cilley.

The team will next take the court on Friday when they host Gloucester High School at Swampscott Middle School at 4 p.m.