Under coach John Ruder, Tabor tennis has reached new heights, but the team will need to find a new leader at the end of the spring season.

Ruder announced his intent to retire Tuesday after seven years as coach.

During his tenure, Jessica Emoto was a three-time Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference singles champion, and three-time KCAC player of the year. Emoto was a first-team NAIA all-american in 2018, while Illia Filanchuck was a second-team selection for the men’s team.

Other accomplishments include leading the women’s team to its first KCAC regular season championship in 2018, three straight KCAC women’s tennis Champion of Character Awards from 2016 to 2018, and the KCAC Champions of Character award for all teams in 2018.

With his retirement, Ruder will be starting a summer camp called “His Court Tennis” to teach about faith and the sport’s fundamentals.

Ruder is taking the opportunity to blend his passions with writing as well. He is preparing to self-publish a book on tennis. He also is working to become a speaker certified with pastor and leadership speaker John Maxwell.