In this episode of the HTP podcast, Katerina Petrovic, aka Kaca, discusses her journey from a young tennis player in Serbia to a successful head coach at FIU, winning 3 USA Conference Championships.

They explore the cultural shifts in tennis, the importance of education, and the evolving landscape of recruitment in the sport.

Kaca shares her personal experiences, coaching philosophy, and the challenges faced in developing a competitive team.

The conversation highlights the significance of passion, hard work, and the changing perceptions of college tennis.

📝 Takeaways

• Kaca's journey in tennis began at a young age in Serbia.
• She faced many challenges, including language barriers and limited resources.
• Education was a priority for Kaca, even amidst her tennis career.
• The culture of college tennis has shifted towards valuing education alongside athleticism.
• Kaca emphasizes the importance of a supportive coaching staff for team success.
• Recruiting international players has become a necessity for college coaches.
• Kaca's coaching philosophy focuses on both physical fitness and mental resilience.
• She believes in the importance of being aggressive on the court.
• Kaca's experiences highlight the sacrifices made for tennis success.
• The conversation reflects on the changing landscape of women's tennis.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kaca's Journey

02:57 Early Tennis Beginnings in Serbia

05:24 Transitioning to Coaching and Education

08:18 The Evolution of College Tennis

11:07 Building a Championship Team at FIU

14:03 Recruitment Challenges and Strategies

16:31 Reflections on Hard Work and Vision

~Join the conversation that’s reshaping the game of tennis.~

Lisa shares her inspiring journey from a promising tennis career to founding Love Serving Autism, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children with autism through tennis.

The conversation explores her early experiences in tennis, the challenges she faced transitioning to a career in speech therapy, and the obstacles encountered while building her nonprofit.

Lisa emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in sports and the profound impact tennis can have on children with developmental disabilities.

She also discusses the significance of maintaining perspective during tough times and the rewarding nature of her work.

📝 Takeaways

• Lisa started playing tennis at the age of five in Memphis, Tennessee.
• She transitioned from a competitive tennis career to speech therapy after facing injuries.
• Founding Love Serving Autism was driven by a passion for helping children with autism.
• The nonprofit integrates tennis with speech and occupational therapy for children.
• Lisa emphasizes the importance of consistency in teaching children with autism.
• She faced significant challenges in managing her nonprofit while working full-time.
• The impact of tennis on children with autism is profound and rewarding.
• Inclusivity in sports is crucial for the development of children with disabilities.
• Perspective is key in overcoming challenges and maintaining motivation.
• Building a supportive community is essential for the success of nonprofit initiatives.

~Join the conversation that’s reshaping the game.~

In this inspiring episode, Gira sits down with Allie to explore her tennis journey—from hitting balls with her father in Ohio to playing at the Naval Academy, and eventually transitioning into coaching and mentoring tennis players.

Along the way, Allie shares the profound influence of her early coach, Susan Cinciala, and the pivotal role tennis played in shaping her resilience.

Today, Allie uses her experience to help players embrace balance by integrating yoga, mindfulness, and academics alongside tennis.

Her advice to young athletes is clear: nurture relationships with your coaches, focus on your education, and find your value outside of wins and losses.

📝 Show Notes Outline (5 Key Points)

1. Allie’s Tennis Roots – From playing with her father in Ohio to her 1st coach, Susan Cinciala, her most influential coach.
2. Navigating Challenges – Stepping away from tennis during her parents’ divorce, then returning to the game in high school.
3. College Tennis Experience – Competing at the Naval Academy, facing coaching challenges, and lessons learned about communication and resilience.
4. Identity Beyond Tennis – Finding balance through academics, relationships, and incorporating yoga for both physical and mental benefits.
5. Advice for the Next Generation – Prioritizing education, building strong coach-player relationships, and embracing balance as a key to success. ~Join the conversation that’s reshaping the game.~