He enjoys teaching the game of tennis. He has run the tennis lessons for the City of Cortez Parks and Recreation Department for the past several years. Now he will get the chance to coach the boys tennis team at Montezuma-Cortez High School.

Jim Harkendorff, 53, succeeds Ricky Carver who took over the program for his second time with the team last year.

"I want to recognize Ricky Carver for helping bring Cortez High School tennis, boys and girls, to a program that is respected in the Southwest League. He’s a good person," Harkendorff said.

He said he enjoys being around students and watching pursue their goals.

"Tennis does not involve natural body movements, so it’s a real challenge to improve at tennis. All of the boys who played last year made steady improvements (Harkendorff was an assistant coach a year ago). They did a great job. Also, the parents provided great support for the team. I appreciate the fact that the kids made steady improvement," he commented.

Harkendorff was an assistant coach last season. He certainly is no stranger to teaching the game.

"I like to teach the basics. I have been running the summer tennis lessons program for the City of Cortez Parks and Recreation Department. Although I have only played recreational tennis, I have been playing it since I was in high school. I will show them what I can and try to help them accomplish their goals.

"Every player has their certain strong points about the game. I just want to help refine their skills. Whatever they do best then we will concentrate on that and then help them in areas where they are lacking in skills. I will try to take each kid on a case by case basis. I want to help them accomplish their style of play," Harkendorff remarked.

He said he is not an advanced tennis coach. He said if a player wants to turn pro, he will have to find another coach after the season.

Tennis is a game, though, that a person can play a lifetime. Tennis, like golf and swimming, are considered country club lifetime sports.

"I’m 53 and I love playing the game. I would say rarely would you ever see guys in their 50s, 60s, and 70s going out and playing football. But you can go out (if health allows) to go out and play golf or tennis. It is a good sport because it does not punish the body the way other sports do. It is not hard on the limbs for youngsters or senior adults. Plus, you can go out and have a good time playing. It is such a good game and a good way to stay physically active and have it a part of a healthy lifestyle," he added.

Harkendorff said he wanted to invite the community to come out see, "some really good tennis this season. I invite the community to come and watch these players."

Informal practice sessions are now under way. MCHS opens the 2001 season at Fruita-Monument on Aug. 17 and then travel to Montrose on Aug. 18.

The Panthers open their home portion of the season Aug. 24-25 against Grand Junction High and Central of Grand Junction. They have other home dates Sept. 21-22 against Fruita-Monument and Montrose and Sept. 29 against Durango. The home court is at Parque de Vida.