Texas Tennis Coaches Podcast

Send us Fan Mail Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas speak with Olympic tennis champion Monica Puig, Puerto Rico’s first Olympic gold medalist and first woman to win an Olympic medal for the country. Puig recounts her 2016 Rio triumph, the winding path through professional tennis and retirement, and what her experience taught her about athlete-coach respect, accountability, and team culture. Olympic gold medalist and former professional player Monica Puig joins hosts Ruben Vargas and Amanda Sterling to discuss player-coach relationships, the pressure of defending ranking points, and her transition into tennis broadcasting. She also shares why doubles deserves more recognition and describes her ambassador work with Vimenti, a Puerto Rico school supporting children and their families.

Send us Fan MailAmanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas recap the 2026 Texas UIL State Team Tennis Tournament, highlighting close matches, championship comebacks, sportsmanship, and program-building across classifications. Interviews with coaches, Texas Tennis Coaches Association leaders, and UIL Athletic Director Ray Zapeta add firsthand perspective on tournament decisions, coaching approaches, and the future of Texas tennis.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Brent Abilez introduces Coach Athlete Log, a new app designed to help coaches efficiently document practice, games, injuries, and athlete interactions. We explore how this tool can streamline documentation, improve communication, and ensure legal compliance across sports organizations. Coach Abilez shares insights into his innovative coaching app designed to streamline record-keeping and communication for coaches, along with updates on his tennis program at San Angelo Central. The conversation covers practical tools for coaches, the importance of documentation, and future plans for expanding his platform.And at minute 55 the discussion takes a turn toward playoffs, Fantasy Football, and the Cowboys.

Send us Fan MailThe best coaches don’t just coach tennis—they coach kids through life. 🎾Some of the biggest lessons have nothing to do with forehands or footwork.Trust, patience, and understanding your athletes matter more than chasing perfection. The coaches who make the biggest impact are willing to adapt to the kid—not just the scoreboard. That’s what makes coaching so special.If you’re a coach, parent, or player, what’s the biggest lesson tennis has taught you off the court?We chat with THE Wes Kidd and THE Casey Graham of 213 Tennis in this episode. As mentioned, if you are a tennis coach with a funny story from a match, tournament, or any thing or the sort send it in to @213_tennis on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.#TexasTennisCoaches #TTCP #213_tennis 

Send us Fan MailJoey Cantu’s move from tennis coach to athletic director came from one thing most people overlook:He networked with every coach on campus, not just tennis.He learned how the whole athletic department actually works.He stopped trying to do it all alone and started leading better.A coach's success in sports isn’t just Xs and Os. It’s trust, communication, and knowing how to work with people.If you’re a coach, AD, or trying to grow into leadership, save this.What’s one relationship you’ve built that changed your career?

Send us Fan MailThe season's starting and it feels like everyone is already on the move! 🏃‍♂️💨Drop a 🔥 if you’re feeling the pressure to hit the ground running!Even seasoned coaches admit—nothing prepares you for that chaotic rush when practice, matches, and professional development collide.But here’s the truth: understanding your game, your players, and staying flexible is what really makes the difference.Are you taking time to build relationships with your players and admins early on? Because that’s the secret sauce for success.Worth thinking about—are you embracing this season ?!?🌄 Seasons are fast; don’t blink or you'll miss the magic. ✨ #TTCP #TeamTennis #HighSchoolTennis #Changeover 

Send us Fan MailFamily, growth, and good coaching go hand in hand. 🎾 In this episode, Coach John Latham shares his journey into coaching tennis, the importance of family, building a coaching community, and strategies for team development and competition. Tune in for valuable insights and practical advice for tennis coaches at all levels.#TexasTennis #CoachingLife #TennisCoach #HighSchoolTennis #TTCP

Send us Fan MailEver wonder what makes a coach truly impactful? 🚀 Tony Martinez's story is full of lessons on growth, mentorship, and staying hungry to learn.Drop a 🔥 if you're committed to leveling up your coaching game!From humble beginnings in Wichita Falls to guiding camps at UT and transforming programs — his journey proves that every moment is a chance to teach more than just tennis.Tony's approach? Always keep an open mind, embrace new drills, learn from others, and never stop growing — both on and off the court.He reminds us that the best coaches are lifelong learners, willing to adapt and inspire. 💪What’s one lesson you’ve learned from a mentor that’s stuck with you? Share below! #TexasTennis #TTCP #LifelongLearning #TennisMentor #GameChanger

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Eddie Marquez shares his inspiring journey from weighing over 415 pounds to transforming his health and life through dedication and hard work. We explore his coaching philosophy, the rich tennis culture of South Texas, and his efforts in mentoring fellow coaches and athletes, all while balancing his passions for barbecue, family, and community involvement.Connect with Eddie MarquezFacebookTikTok

Send us Fan MailIn this engaging interview, Coach Logan Daniell shares his journey from small school tennis to leading a large program, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, discipline, and community support. Discover practical insights on coaching, team management, and building a successful tennis program at any level.