Tennis
Recognizing his 18 years of
promoting and teaching tennis with the Collier County Parks & Recreation, our
Tennis Director Spike Gonzales received the 2018 Collier “Pro of the Year” award at
the annual convention of the Florida Division of the United States Professional
Tennis Association. In taking on the role of the
teaching professional for Collier County Parks in January of 2000, Spike
greatly expanded the role of the parks in bringing tennis to the Naples area
with an affordable beginners tennis program and ongoing “play and learn”
activities. Training a staff of certified professionals he has
introduced tennis to over 5,000 area residents.
“Spike’s
award,” says the Collier USPTA President, Jicham Zaatini, "is a tribute to
his dedication to bringing tennis as a recreational sport to the Naples
locale. His efforts have positively impacted the health, fitness and
outlook of thousands of local children and adults.”
The Wilderness tennis program, located in a beautiful wooded setting, is directed by our tennis professional, Spike Gonzales. He has been a USPTA certified tennis pro for 35 years and has developed thousands of players from beginners to professionals.
Spike is equally at home coaching children, current players, newcomers to the game and players returning to the game after a long absence. Spike's belief is that tennis is a fun game and an enjoyable way of keeping fit.