Eric Schilthuis was named assistant coach of the men's and women's tennis teams in August of 2025.
“I am absolutely thrilled to have Eric as a full-time member of our staff after his past three seasons as a volunteer,” said Kolar, “He has already shown his dedication to Trine and now we have full access to his vast tennis knowledge and experience. I think together we can take the program to new heights.”
Schilthuis joined Trine University tennis staff as a volunteer assistant coach in 2022, bringing over 20 years of coaching and leadership experience to the Thunder program. A former NCAA Division I player at Western Michigan University, Schilthuis has helped both the Trine’s men’s and women’s teams, including during the first conference championships season for the men’s team in 2024.
Outside of Trine, Schilthuis has led a successful high school coaching career. He has served as the assistant varsity boys tennis coach at Byron Center High School, guiding the team to multiple top state finishes, and previously led South Christian High School’s girls team to its first state finals appearance.
Off the court, he recently retired as the principal of West Kelloggsville Elementary School where he was the principal for 17 years. Before that he was a third-grade teacher for 12 years.
Schilthuis is also a certified ITA and USTA tennis official.
