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A lot of coaches emphasize family and loyalty within a program. It’s literally the truth when it comes to Gustavus Adolphus College women’s tennis.

Jon Carlson is the head coach of the Gusties. His wife, Heidi, is an assistant coach and the Swanson Tennis Center director. Their youngest daughter, Calleigh, is also an assistant coach and assistant director of tennis and life camps.

The Carlsons Have Been at Gustavus for 40 Years
© Contributed Photo

Jon is in his 35th season as not only the head coach for the women’s tennis team, but also the men’s and women’s swimming programs at Gustavus Adolphus. He played for the Gusties men’s tennis team from 1984-88. Heidi is in her 29th season as an assistant. She joined the staff after completing her playing career for the Gusties from 1989-93. Calleigh, one of three daughters to have graduated from Gustavus Adolphus, joined the staff right after her Gusties playing career ended in 2017.

“Coaching with my parents has been so special,” Calleigh said. “What makes it special is that coaching together is more than a job–it's sharing a passion and a purpose with the people you care about the most. Every victory and every challenge feels more meaningful because we're experiencing it together.”