Haga clic aquí para la versión en español
USTA Florida is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month this September by putting the spotlight on members in the Hispanic tennis community.
We want to introduce you to 48-year-old Pedro Estrada. Pedro is originally from Venezuela and has lived in Orlando, Florida for 11 years. He’s been playing tennis since the 1980’s, and is a USPTA Elite Pro, a PTR Professional, and USTA educated.
What is your current role?
I am the Director/Owner of Estrada Tennis Academy in Village Walk Lane Nona.
How did you get involved in tennis?
In the 80’s I was inspired by a group of adults who were practicing and had a very good level in Venezuela. They invited me to practice with them and to enjoy. Also, watching stars like Ivan Lendl, Stefan Edberg, Mats Wilander made a difference in me and created a passion for me to compete.
Does your family play tennis?
My kids Luis Alejandro and Luisangela practice since they were very young, and they are currently PTR certified coaches and help with the children’s group in the academy.
What do you like most about tennis and your role?
What I like the most about my current role in tennis is the development in our community, especially the little ones. We are creating better citizens by teaching them values. We have a free program for the elderly twice per week. We have a very successful afterschool program for children between 4 and 16 years of age. Currently we also have some USTA league teams, and we are the 4.0/40 and over State Champions and will be representing the state at nationals in Surprise, Arizona this October 10th coming up.
What message do you have for parents about tennis?
I suggest for parents to allow their kids to develop in the tennis world, to respect and help in their development, especially those who can play at the competition level. Tennis is a very tough sport that requires lots of sacrifice to achieve goals at the different levels. Allow your kids to have fun and help them learn how to solve physical, tactical, mental and technical problems on the court.
What do you think about Hispanic Heritage Month and how do you celebrate it?
The Hispanic Heritage Month celebration is very important because if shows our achievements and contributions in this magi sport of tennis. In our community of Lake Nona, we continue to strengthen this beautiful tradition.
I have been able to have two great mentors: Kelvin Rivera and Jorge Andrew, leaders in the tennis industry who have impacted and influenced our Hispanic community.
To learn more about USTA Florida’s diversity initiatives, click here.
