Coaches

Certified Professional Coach, Neuro-Inclusive Tennis Trainer, Safe Play Approved

Coach Wendy brings over 20 years of playing experience and more than a decade of dedicated teaching expertise to the court. A passionate competitor, Wendy has been playing in the USTA (United States Tennis Association) since 2002. She earned her PTR Certification in Junior Development in 2012 and has since specialized in delivering private lessons to both youth and adults, as well as engaging group lessons for children under 13.

Out on the court, Wendy excels at keeping high-level energy and interest alive. She utilizes a variety of creative tools and fun, dynamic drills tailored to each player’s unique growth rate. By focusing on the essential building blocks of tennis—balance, response, movement, speed, and coordination—Wendy ensures that every athlete develops foundational skills at their own pace in a supportive, high-spirited environment.

USTA Coaching Member, Safe Play Approved

Bringing 30 years of playing experience and a USTA 4.0 playing level, Coach John is dedicated to helping young athletes master the fundamentals and advance their skills. With a proven background in youth instruction, John excels at creating a positive, high-energy environment where learning and fun go hand-in-hand. Focused on building on-court confidence alongside technical growth, John strives to inspire a lifelong passion for tennis in every player.

PTR Certified Coach, First Neuro-Inclusive Certified Coach

Coach Michael brings over 20 years of playing experience and more than nine years of coaching expertise to the court as our first Neuro-Inclusive Certified Coach. A former NCAA Division I player at Coppin State University and collegiate team captain in Kansas, Michael also competed internationally in ITF (International Tennis Federation) professional tournaments across Africa and Europe. Having coached athletes from ages 3 to 90—including varsity players at Garrison Forest High School, college-bound competitors, and neurodiverse learners—Michael excels at tailoring every lesson to help players of all abilities build confidence, advance their skills, and fall in love with tennis.

USTA Coaching Member, Safe Play Approved

Coach Elliott Kittel has over 30 years of playing experience. He played Division 2 college tennis for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Golden Lions (SWAC Conference), then transitioned to USTA adult tennis leagues and tournament play. Elliott is a computer rated USTA 4.5 and finished 2022 in the top 25 of the National USTA 30+ Men’s Singles Age Division. Elliott finished 2023 in the top 100 of the National USTA 35+ Men’s Singles and Doubles Age Divisions.

As a coach, Elliott focuses on keeping court time fun and engaging. Students are successful when they have a positive relationship with tennis and enjoy their time on court. Elliott focuses on helping students identify their own strengths, challenges, and goals, and works with students to develop their individual styles. 

USTA Coaching Member, Safe Play Approved

Coach Gabriella Kerechanin brings eight years of competitive playing experience and a deep love for the game to the court. A dedicated athlete, she currently plays on the University of Maryland’s club tennis team. For Gabriella, tennis is more than just a sport—it is a vital outlet for stepping outside, connecting with nature, and enjoying the environment while pursuing athletic excellence. As a Student Assistant Coach, she brings that same vibrant energy, focus, and dedication to our athletes, inspiring them to find joy, build confidence, and discover their own lifelong passion for the game.