Collier County’s Gerd Franke named USTA Florida Tennis Volunteer of the Month

USTA Florida is proud to recognize Gerd Franke as the June Volunteer of the Month, honoring his dedication and contributions to the tennis community. With over 20 years of volunteer service, Gerd’s passion for tennis and commitment to fostering positivity in the tennis community makes him an exceptional volunteer. 

When he was eight years old, Gerd picked up a tennis racquet and has yet to put it down since then. He lived in Germany until moving to Naples, Florida in 1995. He immediately joined a USTA Florida Adult League and got familiar with the community. 

Over the years, Gerd has not only been an active player but also a dedicated team captain and organizer. He has captained both Men’s and Mixed Doubles teams, making lasting friendships and creating a sense of community among players on his teams.  

Gerd’s dedication to tennis and his community is evident in his willingness to step up when needed. In a recent season, there wasn’t a 9.0 Mixed Team in his area. Knowing a lot of players that wanted to compete in that division, Gerd took the initiative to captain a 9.0 team himself. He helped organize the team to ensure that everyone could have the opportunity to play. “We finished in second place, but we all had a good team throughout the season,” he said.  

Tennis has been a huge part of Gerd’s life and has introduced him to many incredible people. One of the most significant introductions on the tennis court was meeting a woman, who would later become his wife, Liana. “I met my wife on the tennis court, and we will be celebrating our 27th anniversary this year,” he said. “We have played on the same Mixed Team, but she prefers we are not partners on court, so we continue to be partners in life.  

One of his best memories came when they won the Florida State Championship. “My wife almost fainted after we won. That is my best tennis memory,” he said. Together they have two kids, Christian and Lilly, who both play tennis as well. Gerd has been heavily involved in their tennis journey and has even volunteered to be the assistant tennis coach for his son’s high school varsity tennis team.  

His peers are super appreciative for everything that Gerd has done for the tennis community in Collier County. “Gerd is the perfect example of what every tennis director dreams of in a team captain,” one person said. “Proactive, responsible, ethical, and just a great ambassador for the game of tennis. If all USTA captains were like Gerd, the league play would be perfect.” 

Reflecting on his years of volunteering, Gerd is happy to be able to share his passion with others. “I love the sport, helping others improve their game, and growing tennis in the community.” When Gerd isn’t playing tennis, he is working hard to retire early so he can spend more time on the tennis courts. 

As USTA Florida’s June Volunteer of the Month, the organization thanks Gerd as he continues to captain teams in Collier County, helping provide all walks of life an opportunity to play this lifelong sport. 

Interested in volunteering in tennis? Visit ustaflorida.com/volunteers to learn more about available opportunities.