Asa Townsend, a U-High girls and boys junior varsity tennis coach, died on March 5 at age 63. Mr. Townsend joined Lab in 2017 and guided many athletes throughout their high school tennis careers.
An email to the Lab community from Athletic Director Juliana Zavala on March 6 announced Mr. Townsend’s death.
In her email, Ms. Zavala wrote about how Mr. Townsend strengthened the fabric of the Lab community by consistently caring for both his students and colleagues.
“Whether leading practices or offering a supportive word, Coach Asa brought out the best in Lab’s student athletes,” Ms. Zavala wrote.
Senior Mihika Prakash, a member of the girls tennis team for four years, remembered Mr. Townsend as always being the team’s biggest supporter.
“It was evident that he cared so much,” Mihika said. “Beyond a coach, he was also a friend.”
According to the email, the athletics department has not yet been made aware of any funeral arrangements. Ms. Zavala encouraged community members to contact her with questions.
