Tennis Coach Eric Pertnoy

Eric Pertnoy religiously watched tennis matches for years and years while he played on his high school and college tennis teams. He loved tennis. He loved everything about the game, but specifically he loved to play his own matches. Eric Pertnoy’s teammates would consistently tell him that he should become a coach because of his encouraging mannerisms and his ability to bring out the best in people. Eric Pertnoy was somewhat shocked by these suggestions as he wanted to simply play the game, not coach others to play it. 

As time marched on, Eric Pertnoy was often asked by his own tennis coach to mentor new players who joined the team. Eric Pertnoy would take the players through the drills, introduce them to other players and find out what their strengths and weaknesses were. Eric Pertnoy would then present the results to the tennis coach and discuss strategies for the player. He was always able to see where a player needed improvement and how to capitalize on the strongest points in those same players. The coach appreciated his insight and encouraged him to continue working with the other players.

Finally, Eric Pertnoy admitted to himself that he was already doing and enjoying the job of a coach. Why not get paid to give this advice and mentor players younger than him? It was not as if he was getting any younger and he was not going to be a professional. He still got to play whenever he wanted and got the satisfaction of helping the other players. Eric Pertnoy learned to appreciate the art of coaching that season. He has been coaching ever since and proudly builds a strong team each season. Last year, Eric Pertnoy and his team were awarded tickets to see the US Open. It was a very exciting day for all.