My tennis journey began at Napa High School, where I made the team as a sophomore. Starting at the exhibition level, I steadily worked my way up to finish my senior year as the number three singles player. I was fortunate to train under local tennis instructor Steve Stefanki, a respected figure in the professional tennis world. His brother, Larry Stefanki, coached American tennis star Andy Roddick, which speaks to the family’s deep ties to the sport. Under Steve’s guidance, I learned advanced techniques early on, and his mentorship played a major role in sparking my lifelong passion for tennis.

I continued my tennis career at the University of San Francisco, joining the club tennis team in my second year. Soon after, I became president of the USF Tennis Club, where I organized competitions with local colleges, created match lineups, and competed alongside my teammates. Working with USF Tennis Coach Sean Dizon allowed me to further refine my skills and deepen my understanding of the game. These experiences strengthened my love for tennis and developed my leadership and teamwork abilities. My time at USF also gave me the opportunity to build lasting relationships with fellow athletes that continue to inspire my coaching today.

My goal for Wine Country Tennis is to coach and inspire players of all ages to develop a love for the sport while improving their skills and embracing a healthy lifestyle. Napa Valley is the perfect setting to grow in tennis, and my experience at local clubs such as the Napa Valley Tennis Association, Silverado Country Club, and Napa Valley Country Club has fueled my passion for giving back to the community. I founded Wine Country Tennis to create opportunities for athletes to connect, learn, and thrive in a supportive environment. My plan is to become a certified USTA Tennis Coach and lead a dedicated team of instructors committed to fostering growth, respect, and sportsmanship. t.