Doug Ross’ coaching career unfurled well before he strung nets across Geneva badminton poles for the first time in two decades.

Ross guided the boys soccer, girls track and boys tennis programs in his first several years at Geneva. In 2009, he brought badminton back, and three seasons later, it’s thriving.

The Vikings won the Upstate Eight Conference tournament this past weekend and recently captured their second straight UEC River regular-season crown. Things could be even brighter next spring, but Ross will only be a bystander.