ST. JOSEPH, Minn. – After a four-year career and serving as one a leader on and off the court for the College of Saint Benedict tennis team, Kayla McIver returns to the program starting in 2021-22 as an assistant coach.
 
McIver – a 2021 Saint Benedict graduate with a degree in psychology – is excited about her new role with a program that she played a key role in from her first year through senior seasons.
 
"I can't wait to take on this new role with the team," McIver said. "I know firsthand how amazing this group of women is on and off the court as I recently played alongside them. I am eager to work with them in a different position as their coach to help them become the players they strive to be."
 
As a first year for the Bennies, McIver was named the team MVP after leading CSB with 15 singles wins. She played No. 1 doubles as a sophomore and junior, and finished 8-4 in singles play in 2019-20 before COVID cut the season short – including a 2-2 record at the ITA Midwest Championships.
 
During her senior year, McIver competed in the No. 1 singles and doubles slots for Saint Benedict, and earned a spot on the MIAC Sportsmanship Team at the end of the season.
 
"We are so lucky to have Kayla on the coaching staff this year," head coach Michael Engdahl said. "She has been a huge part of our program over the last four years and has developed into a true leader. We have set high goals for ourselves this year, and she is going to play a key role in us achieving those goals."
 
McIver is currently pursuing her Master's degree in social work from the College of St. Scholastica. CSB opens the 2021 fall season Saturday, Sept. 11, when it heads to River Falls to take on both UW-River Falls and Southwest Minnesota State.