Coronado’s new tennis coordinator, Sue Hites, gave me the lowdown about this brand-new position and the new tennis center on Glorietta Blvd. Here’s the scoop:
What’s your Coronado story?
A former resident of Rancho Penasquitos and various other California cities, Sue has lived in Coronado for the past five years. She is a University of San Diego alumna, where she attended on a tennis scholarship in 1975 the first year tennis scholarships were made available to women.
Sue and family made the move to Coronado when her daughter became interested in the CoSA program at Coronado High School, but found it difficult to gain admission as a non-resident.
After settling in the Village, Sue inquired about a tennis-pro position at the local Marriott Resort and was instantaneously appointed the spot, as they had no pros employed at the time.
Sue has been tennis coordinator since August of this year, and is the very first to hold this newly created position with Coronado. Though this job does not involve giving tennis lessons, she still teaches at the Marriott occasionally.
Sue outside her office
What is the purpose of the new tennis coordinator job and why do we need it?
“The tennis coordinator position oversees all aspects of tennis for the city,” Sue says. The position was created by the city’s recreation department as a different and more efficient approach to providing outstanding tennis services to the community.
A big part of Sue’s job also includes increasing the quantity and quality of programs and events something that the community felt was lacking in Coronado.
What are some things the new and improved tennis center has to offer?
- Eight courts (three of which are lit)
- Spacious clubroom with a full kitchen
- Seven USPTA-certified tennis pros
- QuickStart program (for kids aged 3-10 which uses smaller balls, nets, and rackets)
- 40-Love Tennis & Activewear – Tennis store that offers merchandise and racquet stringing
- Plus, the new center is more than twice its original size!
The tennis center’s clubroom, all ready for Halloween
Who are the tennis pros in town?
Coronado currently has seven USPTA-certified tennis professionals:
Matt Hanlin
Phil Hopkins
Wendy Caragher
Jon Caswall
Joel Myers
Carri Barish
Mario DiLonardo
It seems that there is more energy surrounding tennis in Coronado lately do you think tennis is becoming more popular?
Sue says that the popularity of tennis in Coronado, especially with the new tennis center, has definitely been growing. Regarding tennis programs, events, and enjoyable facilities, she believes that “if you offer it, the people will come,” and says this has held true for all the latest happenings at the tennis center.
In such a recreation- and leisure-oriented city as Coronado, she also stresses the importance of making such amenities available to residents and visitors, and states that there has been nothing but positive feedback regarding the new tennis center.
Steps at the entryway of the tennis center
What is the Coronado Tennis Association (CTA) and what are the benefits of membership?
The CTA is an organization that supports and promotes tennis and tennis events/programs in Coronado. It is the largest local tennis entity and currently has approximately 250-300 members. They are an asset to juniors and provide scholarships to talented young tennis players.
CTA membership is required of those who want to play league tennis, but Sue believes that anyone who plays tennis in Coronado should be a member. It is a great way to support and stay connected to local tennis (and programs, events, and services).
Any upcoming changes to expect at the tennis center?
The tennis center courts are currently free to use, but take advantage now a nominal fee will be imposed for court usage beginning as early as January 2012. An online court-reservation system will also be implemented in January, making it even easier to reserve a court.
The center also has a backboard wall, which will hopefully be turned into one or two “mini-courts,” to be utilized by kids and those who just want to hit a ball around for fun.
When not at the tennis center, what do you do for fun?
“I work!” Sue says with a laugh, adding that her new role as tennis coordinator is fun and is something she truly enjoys doing.
From the way she speaks about what the tennis center has to offer, it is very apparent that Sue is wholehearted and passionate about tennis and her new position and what more could you ask for in your local tennis coordinator?
Upcoming Events:
October 30, 2011: Monster Tennis Mixer
November 19, 2011: Novice Tennis Tournament
November 25, 2011: Family Turkey Trot Tennis Tournament
Coronado Tennis Center
1501 Glorietta Blvd
Coronado, CA 92118
(619) 522-2650
The Coronado Tennis Center is now on Twitter! @CoronadoTennis
