Columbus East High School

Building Momentum: Coach Adam Ulrich Sees Growth Across the Columbus East Girls Tennis Program There’s no shortcut to building a program. For Columbus East girls tennis head coach Adam Ulrich, progress isn’t just measured in match results — it’s measured in commitment, culture, and long-term development. As the Olympians prepare for the new season, Ulrich sees clear signs the foundation is strengthening. Growth From Within Compared to when he first took over, Ulrich says the most noticeable improvement has been in numbers and overall experience. More importantly, the internal drive has changed. “The team is growing from the offseason in terms of numbers and experience,” Ulrich said. “The girls are really helping to see the team improve by focusing on how they can improve personally.” Players are coming in on off days, staying late to hit, and buying into the idea that tennis can’t be a seasonal commitment if the goal is long-term success. The culture shift toward year-round development is taking root. Offseason Emphasis: Conditioning and Skill Work Winter in Indiana isn’t exactly tennis-friendly, but the Olympians have found ways to maximize their time indoors. Ulrich said conditioning and skill development were the primary focuses during the offseason. Many players participated in additional workouts and East Beast strength sessions, while multi-sport athletes continued building overall athleticism. Because of snow and colder temperatures, the team has incorporated new training equipment indoors — preparation Ulrich hopes will translate smoothly once they move outside. Beyond physical preparation, the coaching staff has emphasized what it means to represent Columbus East: being aggressive, consistent, growth-oriented, and team-centered. Experience and Leadership Returning This year’s roster brings stability — and numbers. Only a couple of seniors graduated last season, and the entire varsity lineup returns. In total, more than 20 returning players are back in the program, along with new additions who bring previous experience and will help elevate the overall level of play. With 11 seniors on the roster, leadership won’t be in short supply. “All of the returning players have shown early improvements so far, which makes us excited to get to match play,” Ulrich said. Meanwhile, younger players are progressing steadily and will anchor the reserve team while positioning themselves as the future of the program. Preparing the Next Wave While the senior class provides immediate experience, Ulrich is already thinking ahead. With 11 seniors set to graduate after this season, the development of underclassmen is critical. For those younger players stepping into larger roles, the focus is simple: growth. The coaching staff is emphasizing consistency, point control, and intentional strategy — teaching players to manage rallies, dictate pace, and make smarter shot selections. Building those habits now will shape next year’s leadership core. Progress Beyond the Scoreboard Ulrich believes true progress extends well beyond wins and losses. Since he began leading the program, Columbus East has hosted multiple summer camps for K-8 students. Now, those younger campers are starting to filter into the high school ranks — a sign the long-term investment is paying off. The boys’ and girls’ programs are also supporting one another more than ever, even serving as managers during each other’s seasons to stay engaged year-round. It’s all part of keeping tennis top of mind and strengthening the overall culture. “To be competitive, we need to look at tennis as a year-round sport,” Ulrich said. That mindset is spreading. Identity on the Court When fans come out this spring, Ulrich wants them to see a team that controls matches rather than reacts to them. Consistency and aggression will be the keys. The Olympians are being pushed to keep more balls in play while attacking opportunities to finish points. The goal is to dictate pace, apply pressure, and force opponents into defensive positions. It’s a mentality shift — one that reflects a program steadily building confidence. The results will ultimately speak for themselves. But the groundwork is clearly being laid, and Columbus East girls tennis is pushing forward with purpose.