From Coach to Director: Preparing for Leadership in Racquet Sports

What does it take to move from being a successful coach to becoming an effective racquet sports director?

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale speak with Diego Leal Reyes, a member of the inaugural USTA Racquet Sports Management Apprenticeship class. Diego shares how his journey took him from collegiate tennis and an intended career in finance to coaching, club operations, and preparation for a leadership role in the racquet sports industry. His experience offers aspiring leaders an honest look at the many responsibilities that come with becoming a director. From managing staff and communicating with members to maintaining facilities, working with stakeholders, and making difficult decisions, Diego explains why leadership requires much more than strong on-court skills.

This episode is essential listening for coaches and racquet sports professionals who want to advance their careers. Through Diego’s experiences with mentorship, failure, emotional intelligence, networking, and personal well-being, the conversation demonstrates that leaders may never feel completely ready for their next position—but they can prepare themselves to make good decisions, seek support, and continue learning.

What You’ll Learn:

Why being a successful coach does not automatically prepare someone to become a successful directorHow Diego transitioned from studying finance to pursuing a career in racquet sportsWhy performing less glamorous club responsibilities can provide valuable leadership experienceHow the USTA Racquet Sports Management Apprenticeship combines education, practical experience, and industry exposureWhy directors must be prepared to manage people, facilities, members, and organizational stakeholdersHow mentors can adapt their leadership approach to different personalities and individual needsWhy aspiring leaders may never feel completely ready for their next positionHow Diego learned from a difficult employee conversation that did not go as plannedWhy emotional intelligence, professional networks, and personal well-being are essential for long-term leadership success

Resources & Mentions:

USTA Racquet Sports Management Apprenticeship

USTA National Campus

Hosts:

Kim Bastable — Professor of Practice and UF Director of Racquet Sports Management

Simon Gale — USTA Senior Director of Racquet Sports Development

Guest: