Max Navarro-Steffen leads Tigers to state tennis tournament

Marietta Tennis Coach Chris Mayer Honored with State Award for Sportsmanship

Marietta High School tennis coach Chris Mayer has been recognized as the sole recipient of the state award in tennis for the 2023-24 school year. The award, based on sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity, is a rare honor for programs in the Southeast District.

Mayer, who has been coaching the boys team at Marietta for 19 seasons and the girls team for 14 seasons, expressed his gratitude for the award. He credited the fantastic group of kids, supportive parents, and his passion for the sport as key factors in his success.

The Ohio High School Athletic Association commended Mayer for exemplifying the values of sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity, serving as a role model for student-athletes and others. Mayer’s dedication to the sport and his players has been evident throughout his coaching career.

In addition to his coaching accolades, Mayer is currently preparing for the state tournament with one of his players, Marietta junior Max Navarro-Steffen. Navarro-Steffen, a foreign exchange student from France, recently won a Division II district title in singles and will be competing in the state tournament at the College of Wooster.

Mayer expressed confidence in Navarro-Steffen’s abilities, noting his strong performance throughout the season. With tough competition ahead, Mayer believes Navarro-Steffen has a good chance of making it to the second day of the tournament.

As Mayer continues to inspire and support his players, his dedication to the sport and commitment to sportsmanship serve as a shining example for the tennis community.