Meet the City of Irvine's tennis professionals, all of whom are United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) or Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) certified. They offer both group and private lessons at various City parks. To register for a lesson, please call registration at 949-724-6617 or 949-724-6400.
Only the instructors shown are authorized to teach at City of Irvine tennis facilities. Any unauthorized commercial use (lesson, tournaments, etc.) on City courts is a misdemeanor, pursuant to Irvine Municipal Code, Section III.G-201.
If interested in providing Tennis or Pickleball Contract Instructional Services, please email us at tennis@cityofirvine.org (Open in new window).
Please call 949-724-6617 or 949-724-6400 or visit tennis@cityofirvine.org (Open in new window) to:
- Schedule a private lesson.
- Speak with one of the instructors.
- Report an individual posing as a City instructor/teaching illegally.
- Obtain information on how to become a City tennis instructor.
- Obtain more information about the City's tennis program.
Lessons and programs are available in other languages:
Japanese: Minako and Hiroki
Korean: Sophie
Spanish: Alex, Azi, and Juan
Tagalog: Jovanna
Mandarin and Taiwanese: George
Vietnamese: Daniel, Steve and Olivier
Farsi: Azi
Turkish: Mehmet
Click on each professional's picture for their biography.
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Alex was born and raised in Argentina and is fluent in Spanish. He began playing tennis when he was 9 years old. He played junior level tennis and progressed to open level until age 19, and afterward played several tournaments (majority on clay) in Buenos Aires between 1995 and 1998. He also worked as an assistant pro for two years. In 2001, Alex moved to California where he continued coaching private and group lessons. He acquired a Professional Tennis Registry Adult and 10 & Under Development certification (Professional Level). In addition, Alex completed the “Foundation of Tennis Teaching” directed by Coach Don Henson. In May 2020, he completed his Bachelors degree in Kinesiology from California State University, Fullerton. Alex is also a Certified Strength Coach through the National Council of Strength and Fitness (NCSF). This certification covers specifically to strength and conditioning training. Weight training, sport specific training for all ages and sports. Also recognized by high school, college, and professional organizations as well as health clubs, this credential is nationally accredited by the highest standard in the industry. Alex teaches at Cypress Community Park. Classes/Lessons: Adult (Open in new window) Junior (Open in new window) Private (Open in new window) |
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For more than 35 years, Chris has conducted junior lessons and leagues for the City’s tennis program, offering grass roots lessons to competitive teams. Getting kids started and giving them a chance to pursue a goal of playing tournaments or high school tennis is what Chris loves to do. Chris graduated in 1981 from UC Irvine (#2 singles) and played professional events for several years, attaining an Association of Tennis Professionals ranking in singles and doubles. Coaching highlights include National and State USA Team Tennis Champions and seeing former students receive college scholarships. Chris teaches at Heritage Community Park. Classes/Lessons: |
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Desiree Tran Desiree was born and raised in Southern California and started playing tennis at the age of 9. At the junior level, Desiree was ranked top-100 nationally and top-20 in Southern California and received a full athletic scholarship to Brigham Young University (BYU), where she played top singles and doubles and also served as a fifth-year volunteer coach. She started coaching tennis at the age of 18, being one of the tennis coaches for BYU Summer Tennis Camps for the next four years. Desiree decided to commit to coaching tennis in June 2015 after graduating from BYU with a degree in Exercise Science. Desiree served as the head tennis coach for Corona Youth Tennis League in 2015-2016. During the 2016 season, Desiree served as a volunteer women’s assistant coach for Cal State Fullerton. She was named the assistant women’s tennis coach for UC Irvine 2016-2017 season. Desiree enjoys working with children on teaching them how to enjoy the sport, and how to be the best tennis players they can be. She is a member of the United States Professional Tennis Association and Professional Tennis Registry. Desiree is currently teaching at Northwood Community and Citrusglen Neighborhood Parks. Classes/Lessons: |
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Dianne was named head women’s tennis coach at Cal State Fullerton in 2014, and remains in the Big West Conference after serving as an assistant on UC Irvine’s staff during the 2013 season, and head coach at Maryland College during 2011-2012. Dianne spent her first year in coaching as an assistant at UC Irvine in 2009. Born in Balagtas, Bulacan, Philippines, Dianne competed as a member of the 2007 Philippine team at the South East Asian Games and the 2008 Philippine FED CUP team. A 2007 graduate of the University of Southern California, Dianne ranked as high as No. 32 nationally in singles and No. 28 in doubles at the collegiate level. At the junior level, Dianne enjoyed a prolific career as one of the best players in California and in the nation. Dianne was ranked as the No. 1 player nationally in singles at the U16 level in 2000 and 2001. Also in 2000, Dianne earned the distinction of the USTA’s Southern California Player of the Year. Dianne teaches at Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park. Lessons: |
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George Wang Before receiving a Division 1 scholarship to DePaul University, George held a ranking of #3 nationally as a junior player in Canada and also represented Chinese Taipei at the ITF World Junior Cup (Sunshine Cup). After graduating from DePaul, George obtained a Master’s degree in Sports Management from Henderson State University, where he also served as the graduate assistant coach for the men's tennis program. In the last decade, George has mentored many tennis players at different levels, including tour level professionals, NCAA players, regional club members, and summer camps for kids. Before joining the City of Irvine, George spent several years on the ATP and WTA tour as a touring coach for many Taiwanese players such as Chia Jung Chuang (highest ranking at #5 in WTA doubles) and Tsung Hua Yang (highest ranking at #1 in ITF Juniors). During his time on the tour, he was able to work closely with other top ranked doubles players like Lisa Raymond (USA), Sania Mirza (India), and Latisha Chan (Chinese Taipei). In 2009, George was appointed to be the Assistant Coach of Team Chinese Taipei for the World University Games in Belgrade, Serbia. After his time travelling internationally, George served as the director of tennis at the Taipei City Tennis Center where he oversaw 10 to 15 tennis pros and 200+ players for the city in the last 3 years. George is currently an assistant coach for the University of Southern California (USC) tennis teams. George is fluent in Mandarin, Taiwanese and English. He is currently teaching group and private lessons at Portola Spring Community Park. Classes/Lessons: ADULT (Open in new window) JUNIOR (Open in new window) PRIVATE (Open in new window) Hiroki is a PTR-certified tennis professional who has coached continuously since 2006. From 2006 to 2014, he coached at tennis academies in Japan. He studied biochemistry at Tokyo University of Technology. In September 2014, Hiroki joined Pro Star Tennis Academy as a coach before becoming a tennis professional for the City of Irvine in September 2017. He has experience coaching players of all ages and levels, from juniors to competitive athletes, and has also been involved in the development of several players during their junior years who later went on to compete professionally. He currently teaches at Eastwood Neighborhood Park. Since 2022, he has served as an officially appointed coach representing the United States at international junior tournaments held in Japan. In addition, he is regularly invited to Japan to coach nationally ranked junior players and continues to provide instruction there. He is fluent in Japanese. Classes/Lessons: JUNIOR (Open in new window) Adult (Open in new window) PRIVATE (Open in new window)
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Jon has coached tennis for more than 17 years in Southern California. As a coach, he has won two National Team Tennis championships and taken teams to Nationals nine times, winning nine Sectional Championships (four team Sectional Runner-up trophies) and 15 League Championships. Jon has also coached/captained teams in a Men's Pro Tennis League with ex-pros like Jeff Tarango, Michael Joyce and USC Men's Tennis Coach, Peter Smith. Jon is a PTR Professional. Jon's teaching style is to assess a player's needs and teach the skills necessary to develop a winning mentality that will help students advance to the next level. Jon has also coached juniors in swimming and diving, won a Los Angeles City Softball Championship, college Squash championships, Paddle Tennis National championship and basketball championships. Through various sports, Jon has had great success devising a winning strategy. His goal is to create a fun and safe environment where students of all ages can acquire the skills to improve, think for themselves and enjoy playing the sport. Jon joined the City of Irvine tennis program in 2013 and teaches at Valley Oak Neighborhood Park and Cypress Community Park. Classes/Lessons: |
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Jonathan started playing tennis at age 13. As a sophomore in high school, he played on the varsity tennis team and continued on the singles and doubles tennis team at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo. Jonathan has been teaching tennis for the City of Irvine since 2011 as an assistant at Col. Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park and Homestead Neighborhood Park. He is very eager enthusiastic about teaching tennis. As a PTR Professional, Jonathan believes that tennis can be a very fun and enjoyable sport that one can enjoy for life. Jonathan teaches at Col. Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park. Classes/Lessons: Junior (Open in new window) Adult (Open in new window) Private (Open in new window) |
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Juan is a native of Bogotá, Colombia, where he played in every major junior tournament. By the time he was 18, Juan was ranked in the top 20 junior players. In 1995, he moved to Pensacola, Fla., where he attended Pensacola Junior College and taught tennis at the Roger Scott Tennis Center for three years. Juan completed his college education at University of South Florida. Every summer during college, he worked as an assistant director for the tennis program camp Taconic located in the Berkshire Mountains in Massachusetts. The Professional Tennis Registry certified Juan as a professional coach in 2000. Juan teaches at Los Olivos Park, and speaks fluent Spanish. Classes/Lessons: |
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Kevin Garrett Elite Level 1 Certified Tennis Professional, Kevin Garrett has achieved the second highest ranking of United States Professional Tennis Association. To attest to his dedication to provide an elite level of coaching, Kevin has studied international Spaniard training methods with Emilio Sanchez-former world #7 singles and #1 doubles, and Spanish Davis Cup Coach. Over his high school teaching career, Kevin has a total 142 wins and four losses and was named High School Coach of the Year four times. He is currently a coach at University High School. Kevin has continued to produce tournament players throughout the years, in addition to numerous Local and National tournament wins, his students have also won the Ojai, Junior College State Titles, National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Individuals, and found Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) and Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tour success. Kevin not only has coaching experience, as he has ample experience in different roles such as Director of Tennis, Head Tennis Professional, World Team Tennis League Coordinator, Junior Team Tennis Coach and Organizer, and has developed and overseen multiple Junior and Adult Tennis Academies and Challenge Ladders. Kevin is currently a director of the Great Park Tennis Academy and teaches private tennis lessons at Great Park Tennis Center. Lessons: |
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Prior to becoming a tennis professional in Irvine, Lanea spent more than 18 years in the field of early childhood education and young children management. Her special skills include working with children and adults with disabilities. Lanea is a PTR Certified Professional and a member of the USTA. She serves on the advisory staff of HEAD/PENN, is endorsed by Lotto Sports USA, and was awarded the Head/Penn Advisory Pro of the Year in 2012. Lanea co-captained Turtle Rock Jr. tennis teams to win 49 league championships, seven Orange County championships, seven Southern California sectional championships (2007, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015) and one State Championship in 2013. Lanea is an Irvine resident and enjoys playing competitive tennis. She enjoys creating exercise materials and curriculum both for fine motor and gross motor skill development, and giving children and adults a variety of exercises to enhance their physical coordination and concentration to perform in any activity. She teaches at Turtle Rock Community Park. Classes/Lessons: Junior (Open in new window) Private (Open in new window)
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Minako Stickney A consummate sports professional and PTR pro since 1991, Minako has a passion for tennis, a love of teaching and a talent for creating joyful tennis experiences for players of any age, skill or background. Minako is adept at analyzing court strengths and weaknesses and providing simple, easy-to-master techniques designed to quickly improve her students' game. Minako is also a certified personal trainer, an American Red Cross-certified WSI swimming instructor, a CMAS (Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques) 2-star scuba-diving instructor, and a Surf Life Saver. She speaks fluent Japanese. Minako teaches at Las Lomas Community Park. Classes/Lessons: Adult (Open in new window) Junior (Open in new window) Private (Open in new window) |
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Nic was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and started playing tennis at age 14. Nic trained at Punahou School and in San Antonio at McFarlin Tennis Center, and returned to Hawaii where he was ranked in the top 15 in the state. Nic began his career in teaching tennis when he was 18. He moved to California in 2008 and coached at Francis Parker Girls JV and Varsity. Since 2011, Nic has taught students of all ages and levels in San Diego at the Barnes Tennis Center. Nic teaches at Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park. Classes/Lessons: Adult (Open in new window) Junior (Open in new window) Private (Open in new window) |
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Rick began teaching tennis at Heritage Community Park in 1996. He then moved to University Community Park and later to Knollcrest Neighborhood Park in 2011. He was a member of the USPTA for 10 years and is now a member of the PTR. Rick has also been an in-store technical advisory staff member for Wilson Sporting Goods Co., a USTA clinician, a volunteer area coordinator for the USTA School Tennis Program in Orange County, and an Instructor for the Amateur Athletic Foundation Southern California National Junior Tennis League. He has coached junior team tennis players and led many 12 and 14 year old teams to Section Championships and helped many students make their high school tennis teams. Rick teaches group classes and private lessons at Knollcrest Neighborhood Park. Lessons: |
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Rommel has taught tennis for Irvine since 2005. He started his tennis career training and playing tournaments in Illinois before moving to Irvine to play at Woodbridge High School. Rommel then went on to play on the Irvine Valley College Men’s Tennis team, where he eventually became a coach. Rommel teaches at Citrusglen Neighborhood Park. Classes/Lessons: Adult (Open in new window) Junior (Open in new window) Private (Open in new window) |
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Ross started his coaching career in Pivoda's Tennis Academy in Ostrava, Czech Republic. He played on the Czech junior tour, in the Czech Master Club tennis team league and in junior and inter-school tournaments in Sweden, Italy and Poland. When he moved to the United States in 1998, Ross became a coach at Heritage Community Park. In 2001, he began teaching at Tustin Hills Racquet Club followed by a career as a private instructor and a coach for the cities of Tustin and Irvine. Ross coached his junior tennis teams to win 69 league championships, twelve Orange County championships, nine Southern California sectional championships (2007, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015) and one State Championship (2013). Ross is USPTA Certified at the highest level and serves on the advisory staff of Head & Penn and was endorsed by Lotto Sports USA. Ross was awarded the Head/Penn Advisory Pro of the Year in 2007 and again in 2012. Ross became a tennis coach because teaching tennis is a rewarding career that keeps him active and allows him to help others play a sport that has brought him much joy. He offers a full tennis program, providing instruction to all ages and levels. He runs tennis clinics, camps, USTA Jr. Tennis Team and private lessons at Turtle Rock Community Park. Classes/Lessons: Adult (Open in new window) Junior (Open in new window) Private (Open in new window) |
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John Mano John works with the Great Park Tennis Academy and teaches private lessons out of the Great Park Tennis Center. Lessons |
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Ryan Blanchette Ryan works with the Great Park Tennis Academy, is a co-head instructor of the Adult Academy, and teaches private lessons out of the Great Park Tennis Center. Classes/Lessons: |
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David Izumi David Izumi began teaching tennis in Hawaii during the Summer of 1972. He helped develop successful tennis programs between 1994-2016 at Punahou School and Mid Pacific Institute. In 2016, David taught, coached and trained in Waikiki at the Hale Koa Tennis Facility. David moved to Irvine in early 2018 and teaches group and private lessons at Stonegate Neighborhood Park. Classes/Lessons: |
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Daniel Trinh Daniel Trinh started playing tennis at the age of 12 and feel in love with the game. At the age of 17, his coaching career started with a non-profit organization called "First Serve Santa Ana" where he worked with developing kids of all age to play tennis competitively. Daniel continued his coaching career by leading the Boys' and Girls' Segerstrom High School tennis teams for four years. His girls' team was able to win the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) championship in 2019. Daniel is an assistant coach for the Great Park Tennis Academy and is currently teaching group and private lessons at the Great Park Tennis Center. Classes/Lessons: JUNIOR (Open in new window) ADULT (Open in new window) PRIVATE (Open in new window) |
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Sophie Han Sophie Han is a PTR Professional who started teaching in 1998 at the Beverly Hills Tennis Center. She graduated from California State University of Long Beach with a degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education (no comma) and played on the Women’s Tennis Team, being named to the All Team Big West Conference in 2000 and 2001. After college, Sophie began coaching and served as the Head Coach for the Men and Women’s Tennis Teams at Mt. San Antonio College from 2006 to 2016. She was named the South Coast Conference Women’s Tennis Coach of the Year from 2010-2012 and led the team to their first State Championship in 2015. While coaching at Mt. San Antonio College, Sophie also served as a Tennis Professional and Assistant Manager at the Upland Tennis Club from 2003-2015. In October 2017, she signed a contract to be a Tennis Professional for the City of Irvine. Sophie is teaching at the Homestead Neighborhood Park and also speaks fluent Korean. Classes/Lessons: JUNIOR (Open in new window) ADULT (Open in new window) PRIVATE (Open in new window) |
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Farzin Razyani Farzin started playing tennis at the age of six and became a junior tennis champion at the age of 12 in his home country of Iran. He competed in the 1994 Olympics and the world youth cup in 1994. Farzin was on the Iranian national team for five years. He has experience teaching and coaching tennis for over 25 years and in more than six countries; including England(Wimbledon Tennis Club, 5 years), Dubai (7 years), Russia (Moscow, 2 years), Iran ,Canada (1 year), and the United States (California, 8 years). His certifications include USPTA Elite Professional, PTR Professional, as well as LTA (Lawn Tennis Association ) Level 1, 2 and 3. Farzin is currently teaching group classes and private lessons at Northwood Park. Classes and Lessons: |
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Jovanna Sangria Romero Jovanna is passionate about introducing tennis to young children and developing a well-rounded, competitive tennis player. She is a mother of two and is trilingual: fluent in Spanish, Tagalog, and English. She is also a Senior certified Pilates instructor of ten years (Pilates Method Alliance Certified) and a fitness model. Jovanna is Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) Level I Certified Instructor. She was a former coach at Safe Passage Tennis Program (2008-2013) and has instructed kids of all levels: beginner, recreational, high school, and Open competitive, ages 4-18 as well as adults. Jovanna received a full scholarship to play Division I tennis for Hampton University (Positions 1 and 2 Singles & Doubles) 2007-2010, and has played professionally after college, competing in International Tennis Federation’s (ITF) and Women’s Opens. As a junior, Jovanna reached No.3 Girls’ 12s in Southern California and No. 23 Nationally. She has been a competitive tennis player her whole life and is developing her young children as tennis players as well. Jovanna hopes to add her own experience as a competitive tennis player to her coaching: Learning by example and less talking. A true tennis player needs to learn to think for him/herself on the court and even in life. She hopes to develop not only sound strokes but a sound, independent mind and body on the court. Jovanna is also a health enthusiast and aims to be an example of how a good athlete takes care of herself through adequate practice, competition, rest, diet, stretching, and balancing tennis with life: family, school, work, and of course fun. Most importantly she wishes that all tennis players experience its hard work and joy. Jovanna is an assistant instructor for the Great Park Tennis Academy and teaches Mommy, Daddy and Me lessons and private lessons at Great Park Tennis Center. Lessons: |
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Milad Khatami Milad brings over 23 years of tennis experience, starting as a competitive high school, college, and club player before transitioning into coaching. He began teaching for the City of Tustin Ranch, successfully leading programs in Yorba Linda, Anaheim Hills, and Orange. In 2004, he joined Tustin Hills Racquet Club as a Tennis Professional, guiding adult teams to multiple State Finals. By 2010, while coaching the Costa Mesa High School Mustangs, Milad managed the Irvine Company Apartment Communities’ tennis programs, organizing adult leagues and clinics at premier locations including Newport Bluffs, Promontory Pointe, and Villa Siena. Known for his ability to motivate and develop adult players, Milad focuses on building skills, strategy, and confidence to help them succeed in ITT and USTA leagues and tournaments. He currently teaches private and adult lessons at the Great Park Tennis Center. Classes/Lessons: |
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Danny Garcia Danny Garcia was a top junior player and played all four years at Arlington High School. He lead the team to three consecutive Team California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Championships. Danny attended Riverside City College where he played #1 singles and #1 doubles. He won the doubles Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Regional Championships and was ranked #1 in California and #6 in the nation in the Junior College (JUCO) rankings. He transferred to Division 2 Colorado State University, Pueblo. He was captain and an All-American in both Singles and Doubles for two years playing at the #1 position. As a coach, Danny has over ten years of experience. He was an assistant coach for Riverside City College Men’s tennis team, where he helped lead the team to a conference title. Danny was brought on as a contracted tennis instructor with the City of Irvine in November 2020 and is currently teaching at Deerfield Park. Classes/Lessons: |
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Vatsal Bajpai Vatsal started playing tennis when he was eight-years-old and began to compete in tournaments at the age of ten. Vatsal played the competitive Southern California area and was a highly ranked junior. He attended Los Alamitos High School, where Vatsal captained the team in his third and fourth year. While attending Los Alamitos, Vatsal won league individual doubles all four years. The team won their league all four years, and won the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Southern Section Championship in his senior year. Upon graduating high school, Vatsal was recruited to play college tennis on a scholarship for the University of California, Irvine (UCI). The UCI team was ranked as high as #55 in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) rankings his freshmen year. In his four years of college tennis, Vatsal was awarded Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) scholar-athlete, first-team Big West Conference in doubles, and UCI Anteater of the Week. Vatsal played at various positions in both singles (#3,4,5,6) and doubles (#1,2,3) and captained the team his senior year. Vatsal graduated from UCI with Latin honors and a degree in Economics in 2019. He has coached at Seal Beach Tennis Center in high school and has given private lessons all through college. He recently obtained his Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) teaching certification. Vatsal currently teaches group and private lessons and with the Great Park Tennis Academy at the Great Park Tennis Center. Classes/Lessons: |
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Ace Matias Ace began playing tennis at the early age of five and started competing in junior tournaments when he was eight years old. Ace climbed through the ranks reaching as high as No. 3 in the Southern California Section and No. 6 in the Nation for the 16 and under division. Ace started his Division 1 collegiate career on a full ride scholarship playing for the University of Utah in the PAC 12 Conference. Ace later transferred to the University of Nevada Las Vegas where he was the team Captain and played the No. 1 position for the Rebels earning multiple achievements and accolades along the way. Some of Ace’s notable achievements include :
After graduating from UNLV with a degree in communications, Ace joined Brigham Young University’s staff as the assistant coach for the women’s tennis program from 2016 to 2018. Soon after his time at BYU, Ace returned to his Alma Mater as the assistant coach for the men's tennis program from 2018-2021. During his time at UNLV, he had the privilege to work alongside with his former and current head coach Owen Hambrook, Tennis Legend Andre Agassi, and weights and condition specialist Gil Reyes. Ace has over 20+ playing years of experience and has competed in many Future and Challenger professional tournaments. Ace is PTR certified and works with all ages. He is currently assisting with the Great Park Tennis Academy and teaching private lessons at the Great Park Tennis Center. Classes/Lessons: |
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Akhi Nisha Anish Akhi Nisha Anish is a Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) professional with over 14 years of tennis experience. Growing up as a Southern California native, Akhi has competed in a variety of local tennis competitions from United States Tennis Association (USTA) junior team tennis leagues to USTA/Universal Tennis (UTR) junior and adult tournaments to USTA/World Team Tennis (WTT) adult leagues. He also has experience playing in one of the nation’s top high school varsity tennis teams through his time at University High School. Though academics was a priority during his undergrad years at University of California Berkeley, Akhi competed with the school’s Cal Club Tennis team, which placed first in the Northern California region every year. Following graduation, Akhi continues to play and enjoy the sport of tennis, and has developed his coaching experience through his own private lessons and teaching at the Great Park Tennis Center with Coach Daniel. He works with students of all ages, from young children to adults, and all levels, from beginners to advanced. Akhi is well versed with breaking down the fundamentals and clearly instructing strong technique, while also being able to provide more advanced tips for difficult shot types and match play. Akhi is currently teaching group and private lessons weekends at Great Park Tennis Center. Lessons |
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Steve Ho Steve Ho is a Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) and United States Tennis Association (USTA) Safe Play certified tennis instructor who has served the Greater Long Beach and Orange County communities for over 20 years. He has worked as a USTA Junior Team Tennis Coach and Organizer, and has directed junior and adult developmental programs. Steve’s students have competed in Division 1, Division 3, (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) NAIA Universities, won Ojai Junior College divisions, and High School individual California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Champions. He was a volunteer University of California, Irvine (UCI) Club Coach for five years and a very big supporter of the USTA Tennis on Campus program. His current students compete in USTA Junior Team Tennis, USTA & Universal Tennis (UTR) tournaments, and USTA/World Team Tennis (WTT) adult leagues. Coach Ho is very passionate about introducing tennis to new players of all age levels, developing a mature and gritty mindset, building a solid foundation, creating a plan, and developing all of his students to reach their personal tennis goals. His greatest professional career achievements are to see his former junior students graduate from college and lead a fulfilling life. He absolutely loves it when his former students return to visit him and share their life experiences. Coach Ho speaks and teaches English and Vietnamese. He currently teaches group and private lessons at Stonegate Park. Classes/Lessons: PRIVATE (Open in new window) ADULT (Open in new window) JUNIOR (Open in new window) |
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Mark Espiritu Mark Espiritu is a Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) certified Tennis Coach with the Great Park Tennis Center in Irvine. He truly enjoy working with all ages and skill levels in any aspect of life. Whether it’s coaching tennis, being a mentor, or being a friend, passing on his knowledge to others is something he am extremely passionate about. Mark has gathered a lot of experience working with several skill levels and ages through the Great Park Tennis Academy, as well as assisting other coaches with adult clinics. Mark like to label myself as an artist, and what comes with that are characteristics like creativity and patience. Two things that he believes are extremely beneficial to keeping a safe and refreshing environment for others to work in. Especially with young kids who may have high levels of energy or may have difficulties learning at a certain pace, having a strong sense of patience can help provide a safe-learning environment for many students. Additionally, having a creative mindset can help students work through their own ambitions and goals in unorthodox ways whether it be as a tennis player or as a person in general. Lessons |
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Matt Yuen Matt Yuen is a PTR/PPR certified professional from Los Angeles, CA. Having studied tennis for 12 years with elite coach Kevin Garrett, he has a wealth of experience as a recreational and competitive player. Matt has also been a traditional classroom educator, where good classroom management equals student success. He is committed to developing mental/physical health by tailoring each class to fit each student's individual motivations and constitution. Matt Yuen manages the junior recreational tennis program at Great Park Tennis Center on Saturdays and Sundays, the junior and adult pickleball programs at San Carlo Community Park, and serves as the League Director of the Irvine Team Pickleball (ITP) League at Portola Springs Community Park. He’s also part of the management team at the Great Park Tennis Academy. Classes/Lessons: |
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Jacob Bueno Jacob Bueno began playing tennis at the age of 14 and quickly advanced in skill, making the varsity high school team as a freshman and becoming co-captain. His notable competitive accomplishments include three consecutive Valley Champion titles, two California Classic Tournament titles, four consecutive California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) League Champion titles, Rookie of the Year, Most Improved Player, and Most Valuable Player two years in a row. Jacob is currently studying Applied Physics at the University of California, Irvine. He is a Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) Level 1 certified coach that works with people of all ages. Jacob is currently working as an assistant with Great Park Tennis Academy and teach private lessons at Great Park Tennis Center. Lessons: |
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Azi Vahdat Azita Vahdat is a Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) certified tennis coach. Azi has taught tennis at different elementary and middle schools through the Irvine Public Schools Foundation. Tennis is her life passion. Azi teaches tennis to pass the love of the game to all students who want to share her passion. Lessons: |
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Olivier Ngo Olivier is a Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) certified Instructor who has over 16 years experience coaching at the City of Irvine Heritage Park Tennis Programs. He has first-hand experience with the City of Irvine programs as he grew up in Irvine competing in structured environments ranging from the city’s group classes, team tennis, and tournament play. He was Northwood High School’s Varsity Tennis captain and transitioned into coaching/instructing during his college years. His goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment to nurture young recreational players into serious competition players so that they can reach their full potential within their high-school and college careers. He has experience teaching ages ranging from 5-years-old to adults and families are welcome/encouraged to learn and progress together. He speaks English and Vietnamese and is looking forward to seeing you out there on the courts! Classes/Lessons |
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Joseph Emerson Joseph Emerson started playing tennis at the age of eight and began competing seriously at the age of 13. He got the results he wanted in the 16 and 18 and under age divisions and reached a top seven ranking in California. Joseph played Division 1 tennis for Liberty University. Having a background in competition, he enjoys working with high level juniors and developing young players to a place where they can achieve their goals and excels at bringing the best out of his students in areas such as strategy, attitude, discipline and fitness. Joseph currently is an assistant instructor at Great Park Tennis Academy and teaches private lessons at Great Park Tennis Center. Lessons |
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Sheldon Hseih Sheldon started playing tennis at 9 years old competing in tournaments all over California. He attended Long Beach Poly where he was voted MVP for 3 years, qualifying for CIF and the Ojai tournament. Sheldon played at Cerritos college holding a 21-4 win/loss singles record. He qualified for the State college tournament, and was a doubles finalist for the South Coast Conference. Sheldon reached as high as #12 in JUCO rankings. Sheldon is USPTA Certified. He also coached at Chapel Hill Tennis Club in North Carolina working with juniors and adults ranging from beginner levels to phis students competing in Nationals and at ITF levels. Sheldon currently teaches group and private lessons at Los Olivos Park and is an associate coach for the Great Park Tennis Academy. Classes/Lessons: |
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Joanna Dam Joanna Dam began playing tennis at the age of 13 and made the varsity team at her high school for three consecutive years, becoming co-captain her senior year. She simultaneously competed in varsity cross-country and track and field, serving as co-captain for the girls long distance team for two years. Her previous and current involvement in academics, music, sports, and volunteer work highlight her avocation for her students to be well-rounded and maximize their individual progress. Joanna graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at West Coast University with plans to obtain a doctoral degree in the future. She is a Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) level 1 certified coach that focuses primarily with children and adult beginners. She works as an assistant with Great Park Tennis Academy, overseeing the Mommy, Daddy & Me group class, and providing private lessons at Great Park Tennis Center. Classes/Lessons: Private (Open in new window) Mommy, Daddy and Me (Open in new window) |
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Rozina Esfehani Rozina began playing tennis at six years old and started competing in tournaments at the age of eight. In high school, her team won back-to-back Division 3 and Division 1 CIF titles, and she was named the “Most Improved Player”. She currently studies psychology while playing collegiate tennis. Rozina is a PTR-certified coach fluent in both English and Farsi. She offers coaching for people of all ages and levels. She currently teaches private lessons, adult group classes, and assists with the Great Park Tennis Academy. Classes/Lessons: |
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Mehmet Akbaba Mehmet is PTR-certified and brings 10 years of coaching experience, including four years coaching in Turkey, to his role as a tennis instructor at Great Park. He is dedicated to helping players of all ages and skill levels improve their technique, strategy, and overall love for the game. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management and Physical Education Teaching and competed as a collegiate tennis player, gaining valuable experience at a high level of competition. Mehmet’s coaching approach emphasizes proper footwork, stroke mechanics, mental focus, and consistent performance, all tailored to each student’s individual goals. Fluent in Turkish and English, Mehmet communicates clearly with a diverse range of students, making lessons engaging, effective, and easy to follow. Whether working with beginners learning the fundamentals or advanced players refining their match strategy, he creates a supportive and motivating environment that encourages growth and confidence. Beyond developing tennis skills, Mehmet believes the sport teaches important life lessons such as discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. His goal is to inspire every player to reach their full potential while enjoying the process of learning and playing. Mehmet teaches private lessons at Great Park Tennis Center. Lessons |
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Brandon Ho Brandon is a PTR (Professional Tennis Registry) certified coach. He played baseball, basketball, football, and soccer but eventually switched to tennis at age ten. Brandon competed on the Tesoro High School Boys Varsity Team and Saddleback College Men’s Team. He also played competitive tennis with the Ladera Aces and helped his club team reach Sectional Finals at Indian Wells. Brandon won Boys’ 18s Singles Top Gun Irvine Fall 2018 and Boys’ 18s Singles Patel Irvine Winter 2018 tournaments. Brandon's coaching philosophy is Play to Win and Have Fun! Proper conditioning, agile foot work, technical skills, and mental focus are critical to sustaining stamina, achieving performance consistency, and in turn winning matches. Learn from failure and come back stronger. Relax and enjoy the game! Brandon holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Arizona State University. He hopes to establish and run his own tennis academy in the near future. In his leisure time, Brandon is a movie goer, naming Star Wars, Marvel, DC, Harry Potter, and Mission Impossible series as his top 5. Brandon is currently an assistant for the Great Park Tennis Academy and teaches private lessons at Great Park Tennis Center. Lessons: |
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Thomas Nguyen Thomas has been passionate about tennis for the past ten years, ever since high school. As a PTR-certified coach, Thomas brings both expertise and enthusiasm to every lesson, with a special focus on building strong fundamentals that set players up for long-term success. What he loves most about coaching is sharing that same excitement and energy for the game with others, whether you're a beginner just learning to rally or an experienced player looking to refine your skills. Thomas bring an enthusiastic approach to every lesson, and he’s especially patient when working with kids while also connecting well with adult players of all levels. For him, tennis isn't just about perfecting your forehand or serve; it's about falling in love with the sport, staying active, and having fun on the court. Thomas is currently an assistant for the Great Park Tennis Academy and teaches adult classes and private lessons at Great Park Tennis Center. Classes/Lessons: |
Interested in becoming a tennis professional with the City of Irvine? Please send your resume to tennis@cityofirvine.org (Open in new window).