Christy Thomas said she had not anticipated coaching tennis, much less become head coach of Perquimans High School’s first-ever women’s tennis team.

That changed when her daughter expressed interest in learning the game.

Thomas, who works as a counselor at the school, was announced as the new program’s coach earlier this month.

“I am thrilled that PCHS will have a women’s tennis team this year because it is another opportunity for girls to participate in sports during the fall season,” Thomas said. “We look forward to meeting the tennis coaches and players from the teams we will play. In fact, many of the coaches have reached out to offer their support of our growing program.”

According to the high school sports statistics site MaxPreps.com, the Pirates will compete in the Albemarle 2A Conference and face regional opponents Gates, Camden, Holmes, Manteo and Bertie, and non-conference opponents First Flight, Northeastern and Currituck.

The team’s first match is 4 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 20 at Currituck High. Because Perquimans does not have home tennis courts at the time, all of the team’s matches will be played on the road. Practices will be held at the Perquimans Recreation Center.

The team includes 10 players, plus Thomas and her assistant coach, Rachael Hoar.

The roster features Isabelle Biter, Haylee Gilbert, Cassidey Graham, Faith Jackson, Anne Konrad, Trinity Pledger, Emily Rucker, Everista Stallings, Ellie Thomas and Alayna VanHorn.

“I hope that my players will develop a lifelong love of the sport so they can stay active throughout their lives,“ Thomas said.

According to Thomas, some of the the players are new to the sport but they are enjoying themselves so far.

“Some have recreational tennis experience,” Thomas said. “They are excited to try something new. They are nervous because they are new, but I’ve seen tremendous improvement in those who’ve been coming to practice.”

One player previously played for another school team.

Hoar, who is psychologist for the school district, played tennis in high school.

Thomas said she hasn’t played much tennis but is thankful for area coaches and other tennis enthuasiasts who have volunteered their time to assist her.

Last year a teacher spearheaded the effort to start a school tennis program, Thomas said. Thomas got involved after that person moved out of state and the school needed a tennis coach before the season starts.