Central Davidson Tennis Makes School History Under Coach Jennifer Cayer

For the first time in school history, the Central Davidson High School girls’ tennis team has captured the Pac 7 Conference Championship — and they did it in commanding fashion.

Led by head coach Jennifer Cayer, who is celebrating her 25th year of coaching, the Spartans not only clinched their first-ever conference title but also advanced to the third round of the state dual team playoffs — another first for the program.

“I think it helps that we’re in this new conference,” Cayer said with a smile. “Ledford is usually one of our strongest contenders, but they weren’t as strong this year. Montgomery Central was a tough one too. We actually split as co-champions—they’re a 4A/5A split school, and we’re strictly 4A.”

The success is especially remarkable given Cayer’s unlikely start.
“When I was asked to coach tennis my second year at Central, I said, ‘I guess I’ll have to buy a tennis racket,’” she laughed. Though she wasn’t a tennis player herself, the longtime PE teacher has built a team that’s now among the best in the region.

The Spartans field a 15-player roster, with junior AJ Workman returning as the top seed. The team’s senior trio — Maddie Burkhart (#2), Riley Elliott (#3), and Kelsey Sullivan (#4) — have been standouts, with both Elliott and Sullivan remaining undefeated for the season.

Cayer says their bond and shared faith have also played a role in their success. “Thanks to East Davidson for encouraging the girls to pray,” she said. “Riley prays before every match.” It became a tradition for the region last week.

Coach Cayer adorned a playful but pointed “You’ve been served.”
“I’ve had that shirt for years,” Cayer said. It’s her way of saying, “We’re ready.”

The Spartans face Salisbury High School on Monday at 4 p.m. in their bid to advance to the fourth round and keep their historic run alive — all under the steady hand of a coach who never expected to pick up a racket in the first place.