By Ella Siebert

For Collegiate tennis coach and Middle School educator Cassie Peters, teaching and coaching are far more than her job; they are ways to experience connection, growth, and transformation. Her path to both the classroom and court has gone through different seasons and life stages, yet one mission has remained constant: to build meaningful relationships and help young people flourish. 

Peter’s story is full of adaptability. Originally from Georgia and raised in Texas, her desire for personal growth and stronger tennis competition took her to Nebraska, Corpus Christi, Texas, and eventually across the country to California, as her husband completed his Ph.D in Neuroscience at Stanford University. Through each move, Peters didn’t just follow a path; she actively reshaped it based on opportunities and values.  

As a coach, Peters emphasizes that sports aren’t just about competition; they are a way of life. Her own high school tennis experience at Flower Mound High School, outside Dallas, was deeply personal. “It was coed, and we all contributed to the team score. My coach even came to my wedding,” she shared, illustrating how deep team bonds can go. 

This team-first mentality shapes her coaching style today. She sees sports as an opportunity for students to build trust, navigate challenges together, and develop emotional relationships, which are all qualities that extend beyond the court. 

Since the beginning of her career, Peters has coached over two dozen seasons in tennis, volleyball, and squash. In 2014 she joined Castilleja School, an independent all-girls school for grades 6-12 in Palo Alto, California, where she served as Assistant Athletic Director and a 9th grade advisor. During her time there, she also led the tennis program as head varsity coach in the fall and head middle school coach in the spring. After relocating to Boston in 2021, Peters began teaching at The Winsor School,  another independent all-girls institution for grades 5-12. There, she taught middle school physical education, advised 7th and 8th grade students, and coached middle school volleyball, tennis, and squash. Her work at both schools reflects her commitment to fostering growth and confidence in young athletes throughout adolescence.

When Peters joined Collegiate in 2024, she took on the role of assistant coach for the Middle School girls and boys tennis teams. She led the teams through the 2024 season and went on to assistant coach the girls varsity team in 2025. In the Middle School program, Peters emphasized fun and engagement above all else. She said, “I want them to come back year after year and think, ‘That was so fun, I want to do that again.’” As her players advance to the Upper School level, her coaching focus evolves toward developing mental toughness, strategic thinking, and confidence. Having faced her own challenges as an athlete, Peters draws on those experiences to inspire and motivate her players both on and off the court.

This dual role highlights her understanding of student development. She meets young athletes at the right level, creating joy early on, then guiding athletes through deeper skill building and self-belief. 

One key moment for Peters this fall came during a varsity team win against Sidwell Friends. Sidwell tennis has consistently been ranked in the top 10 in the country. On September 19, Collegiate beat Sidwell Friends 5-4 after many long and intense matches. “We gave it our all and realized how strong of a team we are,” she said. “Even in tough matches, what mattered most was how they showed up for each other.”

While coaching is an immense part of her life, Peters also works as a permanent Middle School substitute, a role that may sound temporary but has become an essential part of her growth and goals as an educator. “I hop into different classes, which has actually been a great way to get to know the students and see all the amazing ways different teachers structure their classrooms,” she explained. 

Peters holds a deep appreciation for the Middle School years. “It’s such a tricky age. So much is changing within themselves, in friendships, in school. I think it’s so important to be a steady, positive adult presence in their lives.” She also credits Collegiate’s environment: “It’s a large school, but it really maintains a small school feel. There are so many programs, and students have a lot of ways to connect with peers and teachers who share their interest.” 

Peters’ journey reflects the idea that purpose doesn’t always follow a straight line. It’s shaped by resilience, openness, and willingness to pivot. This makes her a powerful role model for students facing uncertainty in their own academic and personal journeys. 

Beyond her professional roles, Peters is also a mother of two young children: Caleb, who is almost three, and Eliza, who is 11 months old. She often brings them to matches, allowing them to see her work and get to experience their mom in a different setting. “It’s hard,” she admitted about balancing it all. “But I have a great support system. My husband is super hands-on, and my parents help on match nights.” 

The Peters family.

For students considering a future in education or coaching, her message is clear and passionate: “Do it.” Even if you feel just a small pull toward working with young people, she says it’s worth it. “It’s exhausting, sure, and there are hard days, but it is so worth it.” 

Peters is not just shaping students’ tennis games or guiding them through Middle School; she’s shaping hardworking humans, building lasting relationships, and helping young athletes believe in themselves. Her journey reminds us that great educators and coaches do more than lead drills or lessons. They show up consistently, adapt to challenges, and leave a legacy that lasts long even when the season has come to an end.

All photos courtesy of Cassie Peters.