By Alan Williams, USTA Florida local league coordinator

Tampa Captain Holland Juggles 6 Teams with Camaraderie

John Holland is the USTA League captain extraordinaire in Tampa.

John is the captain of six teams at the Harbour Island Athletic Club — yes, six! Why does John volunteer
his time to ensure so many players get a chance to play competitive league tennis?

He sums it up very succinctly, “It’s fun,” but it is much more than that. By spearheading this incredible league participation, John feels as though it compels the players to continue to strive to improve their game, and at the same time attain the benefit of achieving a healthy lifestyle.

He facilitates team practices and collaborates with several teammates prior to putting the line-ups together. One underlying strategy for success is his belief that proven doubles teams should stay together, i.e., no random combinations. All team participants are members at Harbour Island and this camaraderie goes way beyond the court, as strong friendships have been forged over the years.

Having grown up in a military family living in 14 states and four foreign countries, he deeply understands the importance of bringing people together and being as inclusive as possible. His leadership and passion for the game also transcends beyond the USTA, as he and his wife, Jackie, have spearheaded the Tennis for Animals Tennis Tournament, benefiting animal-based charities in Tampa Bay.

John defines extraordinary — always going beyond what is usual!

Region 3 Teams Advance to USTA League Nationals

Region 3 Tampa/Sarasota-area teams had great results at USTA League Sectionals this year with seven teams advancing to nationals.

National champ’s were Tampa’s Harbour Island captained by Chris Bartos in the women’s 40 & Over 4.5+ division.

Other teams advancing to nationals were:

*  18 & Over Plant City men’ 5.0+ captained by Rick Beardsley
*  18 & Over Waterchase women’s 5.0+ captained by Suzanne Smith
*  18 & Over Fishhawk women’s 3.0 captained by Jackie Caouette
*  Mixed 18 & Over McMullen 9.0 captained by Josh Melton
*  Mixed 40 & Over St. Pete Tennis Center 8.0 captained by John Green
*  Mixed 40 & Over St. Pete Tennis Center 9.0 captained by Josh Melton

USTA Leagues offer local league competition for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Players can now search for leagues locally on the USTA Florida Leagues webpage.

To view upcoming area leagues in 2018 go to www.ustaflorida.com/contacts/alan-williams.