Stonington - First Selectmen George Crouse said Monday that he will continue to coach the Stonington High School girls' tennis team this spring.

Crouse is entering his 41st season coaching the team, which is a perennial contender for conference and state championships. Practice begins next week.

Crouse said he does not foresee a problem juggling his duties as first selectmen with coaching. He said practices run daily from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

"Instead of going home, I'm going to the tennis court," he said.

During his team's seven away matches, he said he would have to leave Town Hall at 2:30 p.m. Home matches begin at 3:45 p.m.

Crouse said his assistant coach Glen Herbert can run the team if he needs to attend to an issue. Crouse added that he is always available by phone.

"I'll do what's necessary to run the town," he said.

- Joe Wojtas