Like many players on the Taylorsville boys tennis team, Tyson Kimball is still somewhat of a newcomer. But Kimball has been a quicker learner. 

Just two years ago, Kimball picked up a racket and started playing competitively. Tennis might not have even been on his radar as a sport to consider had it not been for some other boys in the area. A few neighborhood friends had been playing, and Kimball joined them in a Taylorsville recreation league. 

From there, Kimball has made big strides on the court. 

Now a freshman third singles player on the Taylorsville High School squad, Kimball qualified for the Class 5A state tournament. On May 3, Kimball faced a senior from West High School, falling in the opening round 6-4, 6-0. But for Kimball, just making the varsity squad in his first season with the program was something he enjoyed and can build on. 

He also loved playing alongside his teammates and building good relationships. He said the Warriors enjoyed good team unity and that there was a positive atmosphere on the court each day at practices and matches. 

“The best part about being on the Taylorsville team is learning from the other players and creating friendships that will carry on through high school,” he said. “My favorite memory is when I won the match to move on to the championship in region as a freshman.”

Making friendships is what Kimball has enjoyed most about playing tennis. He said it’s also always fun to “get in a good rally.” Though the season had its share of both ups and downs, Kimball is eager to progress and contribute to the Warriors. With three more years left at the school, he is one that should have a chance to emerge as a team leader and be one that head coach Angela Christensen can count on for production. 

During the offseason, Kimball plans to work hard to refine his game and hone his skills. As a freshman, he believed his best skills included ball placement and resilience. 

“My strengths as a player are adjusting to where I place the ball against my opponent and never giving up,” he said. 

The Warriors competed against Region 4 foes West Jordan, Hunter, Granger, Cyprus and Kearns this season. For the upcoming school year, 2025–26, Region 4 will add West and Hillcrest to the mix. Region 4 teams struggled at the state tournament level, with West Jordan being the only team at state to earn points (one). Incoming school West scored four points at state. Relative to its players’ experience, Kimball said Taylorsville had a good season, with most players qualifying for the region tournament. 

In the meantime, Kimball has already set some big goals for himself, even though he still has plenty of time left in his high school career. In addition to serving a volunteer mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after he graduates from Taylorsville, Kimball hopes to play tennis at the collegiate level one day. λ