Carson Bell named head coach of Pandas Tennis

One of the most successful varsity programs in University of Alberta history will have a new lead voice this season, as long-time assistant coach Carson Bell has been named the head coach of Pandas Tennis.

Bell is a familiar face with the U of A tennis program, having served as an assistant coach for nearly two decades prior to 2020. One of the lead high-performance tennis coaches at Saville Community Sports Centre, Bell brings a wealth of experience as both a coach and high-level athlete back to the Pandas program. He was also recipient of the Tennis Canada Coaching Excellence Award in 2018 and 2019.

"I'm honoured to carry forward the legacy established by the previous Pandas coaching staff. It's a privilege to lead such a talented group of athletes within one of Canada's premier university tennis programs," said Bell. "My goal during my time with the team is to support the Pandas in their continued growth — both as student-athletes and as individuals — as we strive for excellence together."

Along with being regarded as one of Edmonton's premier tennis coaches, Bell is also a highly decorated athlete himself. He is a Canadian master's champion in doubles, represented Canada at the 2024 World Championship in Portugal, and was ranked as high as No. 1 in Canada in 2023/24.

"Carson is an exceptional player and an accomplished coach who will be a tremendous asset to the Pandas Tennis program," said program lead Russ Sluchinski. "Over the years he has worked with many of our current players as juniors and has coached against their former coaches, giving him unique insight into their development and what they need to reach the next level."

Bell takes over the Pandas program from Ivan Quintero, who spent the last three seasons as the team's head coach, and over a decade with the program in some capacity.

The Pandas have earned a national medal in 10-consecutive seasons, including winning five-straight national titles from 2018-2024. 

"I'd also like to sincerely thank Ivan Quintero for his 12 years of dedication to the Pandas Tennis program," said Sluchinski. "His passion and leadership have been invaluable, and we wish him all the best in his new endeavor."