The Swampscott High School boys tennis program was under new leadership this spring, with former Salem State University tennis player Kevin Merino-Rivas taking charge.

The Big Blue finished 7-9 in the 2026 season, missing the playoffs by just one game. After a rocky start, Merino-Rivas said seeing players improve, especially those entirely new to the sport, was what he enjoyed the most in his first year.

Like some of the Big Blue athletes, Merino-Rivas was largely unfamiliar with the sport until his older brother started playing in high school. Merino-Rivas followed suit, starting his tennis career at Shawsheen Valley Technical High School in Billerica.

Merino-Rivas kept his career going at the collegiate level, playing for Salem State for five years. Toward the end of his playing career as an upperclassmen, Merino-Rivas found himself helping younger players in the program with their swing and other techniques. It was around that time when he thought he’d be interested in coaching the sport.

“I was giving out advice during matches,” said Merino-Rivas. “I started to realize coaching could be a good opportunity and something that I’d want to do.”

Merino-Rivas said he brings techniques and strategies that were implemented into his game by the coaching staff at Salem State.

“When I got the role, I not only wanted to see where every athlete was at skill-wise but ensure that everybody was getting in the right amount of practice on the court, competing with others,” said Merino-Rivas.

Early on in the season, practices were about instructing the correct form and techniques into the swings of younger players.

“I’m thankful the guys were able to learn a lot,” said Merino-Rivas. “It started a little rocky, but the kids showed potential and growth. I loved seeing them grow, especially the ones who had never picked up a racquet. Seeing the excitement and hype in their eyes after a win was one of my favorite parts.”

Merino-Rivas said emphasizing consistency will be crucial in his second season. He also plans to focus more on footwork during practice times.

Merino-Rivas’ sights are now set on recruiting, as many Big Blue tennis players graduated in June. He said he is very excited for the 2027 season and the potential of helping grow the sport in town.