Episodes

4d ago

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches Podcast, hosts Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas reflect on the TTCA 2025 convention, share insights from interviews with Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander and Andy Zodin, and discuss the importance of sportsmanship, coaching philosophy, and the role of team spirit in tennis. Ruben and Amanda want to thank Bobby Kleinecke and Wilson for making this interview happen. Another special thanks to Andy and Mats for taking the time to sit and chat with us before the 2025 Wilson Hall of Fame Banquet! LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE if you enjoyed this episode!

Dec 10

Send us a text It's the final day of the Team Tennis season and Ruben Vargas discusses various aspects of coaching tennis, including team dynamics, injury management, and the importance of resilience in sports. He emphasizes the role of coaches in player development and the challenges of event management in tennis. The conversation also touches on the future of tennis in Texas and the significance of building a winning culture within teams, reflecting on personal coaching experiences and achievements. Ruben also speaks with THE 2025 UIL Team Tennis State Champion Coaches 6A- Kevin McIlvain (The Woodlands) 5A- Douglas Fair (Frisco Centennial) 4A- Brett Robins (Wimberley) Like, Subscribe, and Share! Plus we will be LIVE at TTCA Convention, Friday, December 12! Come see us!

Dec 9

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches podcast, host Amanda Sterling and co-host Ruben Vargas interview Tim Cochran, our third Wilson 2025 TTCA Hall of Fame inductee. Tim shares his journey from a young athlete to a successful coach, discussing the importance of mentorship, building strong relationships with students, and creating engaging programs that foster a love for tennis. He emphasizes the significance of collaboration among coaches and the need to adapt coaching styles to meet the individual needs of players. Tim also reflects on the impact he has had on his students and the joy of introducing tennis to thousands of kids throughout his career. Come see us at TTCA Convention 2025 and we will be LIVE! Like, share, and subscribe!

Dec 8

Send us a text We are interviewing our second 2025 Wilson Hall of Fame inductee, Norm Smith. This week, Norm Smith reflects on the legacy of coaching in tennis, emphasizing the contributions of pioneering coaches who paved the way for current and future generations. He expresses pride in being part of this legacy and acknowledges the importance of these figures in making tennis a significant sport. Like, share, and subscribe!

Dec 1

Send us a text Summary In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches Podcast, Amanda and Ruben welcome Terry Hunter, this year's Texas Tennis Coaches Association: Wilson's Hall of Honor Inductee. They discuss Terry's journey in tennis, the importance of relationships in coaching, and the role of vendors like Tennis Outlet in supporting coaches. The conversation also covers preparations for the upcoming TTCA Convention, the significance of team unity, and the impact of weather on events. Terry shares insights on the offerings of Tennis Outlet and emphasizes the importance of helping coaches succeed. Check out Tennis Outlet at atennisoutlet.com! Like, subscribe, and share!

Nov 27

Send us a text Ruben takes over the podcast during the first day of the 2025 UIL State Team Tennis Tournament at the Waco Regional Tennis Center. Unfortunately, he couldn't be in two places at once and missed out on the 5A Semifinals at the Baylor Hurd Tennis Center. We hope you enjoy interviews from the 6A and 4A State Qualifiers. While there is no crying in tennis or baseball, there are some tears shed around the 40-minute mark by one co-host. Like, subscribe, and share this episode!

Nov 24

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches Podcast, hosts Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas interview Manuel Moreno Jr., a Hall of Fame inductee with over 44 years of coaching experience. They discuss his journey in coaching, the importance of teaching life lessons through sports, and the value of building relationships with players. Moreno shares insights on discipline, sportsmanship, and the significance of community among coaches. He reflects on his experiences running successful tournaments and offers words of wisdom for aspiring coaches, emphasizing the need for passion and dedication in the coaching profession. Like, subscribe, and share!

Oct 13

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches podcast, Amanda and Ruben discuss the excitement surrounding the playoffs, the importance of facilities in hosting tournaments, and the need for coaches to recognize and nominate their peers for TTCA Special Awards, COTY and Assistant Coach of the Year (nominations are due November 1). Plus THSCA All-State Academic and SET nominations are due November 1 as well. We also highlight the upcoming Hall of Fame inductions and emphasize the significance of sportsmanship and teaching valuable life lessons to young athletes.

Sep 22

Send us a text This week we chat with THE Coby Velez! He shares his experiences and insights on coaching, mentorship, and community impact. Coby discusses the importance of gratitude, the difference in responsibilities from head coach to assistant coach, and the lessons learned throughout his coaching career. The conversation also emphasizes the role of coaches in shaping not only athletes but also the communities they serve, and the need for future generations of coaches to embrace mentorship and leadership. In this conversation, Coby Velez shares his insights on coaching tennis, emphasizing the importance of community, discipline, and the value of boring drills. He discusses his coaching philosophy, which balances fun with the necessary discipline to improve skills. AND for our next Round Table panel we are looking for coaches who are between their first and third years! Message us on social media (@texastenniscoachespodcast) Like, follow, share, and subscribe!

Sep 8

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches podcast, host Amanda Sterling and co-host Ruben Vargas interview Alex Johnson, a dedicated tennis coach from Shallowater. Alex shares his journey from being a student-athlete to becoming a coach, highlighting the influences of his parents and mentors. He discusses the challenges of managing a busy coaching schedule and how to build a strong junior high program (on a limited schedule). TTCA UPDATES: NOVEMBER 1: 1) Convention payment is due 2) Coach of the Year Nominations are due Be sure to like, follow, subscribe, and share!

Aug 11

Send us a text Hey everyone! We are back... kind of. Ruben is enjoying his endless summer of retirement with golf tournaments and pool parties. I am kicking off the team tennis season, going to inservice, and unpacking. In this episode we quickly discuss- Hall of Fame and Hall of Honor Class of 2025 TTCA Registration is now OPEN! Serve Tennis New teams, new seasons Check out previous episodes, LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE! We will see you on the court!

Jul 21

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches podcast, Greg Gipson shares his unconventional journey into tennis coaching, discussing his early experiences with the sport, the challenges of engaging young athletes, and the importance of mental game training. It's THSCA Convention this week! Come check out the tennis sessions in San Antonio. Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE!

Jul 7

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches Podcast, host Amanda Sterling and co-host Ruben Vargas welcome Len Turner, a seasoned tennis coach with a rich history in the sport. Len shares his journey from growing up in a coaching family to his extensive coaching career at Will's Point High School and his recent transition to Little Elm. The conversation delves into the importance of building relationships with players, the dynamics of coaching, and the challenges and successes of team tennis. Len reflects on his coaching philosophy, the significance of junior high programs, and his aspirations for the future as he aims to grow the tennis program at Little Elm. Be sure to like, share, and subscribe! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @texastenniscoachespodcast

Jun 23

Send us a text This week your hosts recap the first year of Texas Tennis Coaches Podcasts. We look back at past episodes and guests. We also discuss future episodes and what's to come for TTCP! Do you have a coach who you would like to share their coaching philosophy on line-ups OR want to be on the podcast? Let us know on Facebook or Instagram! @texastenniscoachespodcast Thank you for your support. Be sure to like, share, and subscribe on your favorite streaming platform!

Jun 9

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches podcast, Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas welcome Koby Otto. They discuss Koby's journey in coaching, the importance of mindset, building a winning culture, and the impact of community in youth sports. Koby shares valuable lessons learned throughout his career, emphasizing the significance of authenticity and the role of coaches in shaping young athletes' lives. As he transitions into retirement, Koby reflects on his experiences and offers advice for current and aspiring coaches. If you are a Texas Tennis Coaches Association Member, you can also listen to Koby in his recorded session at previous conventions! Like, share, AND SUBSCRIBE!

Jun 5

Send us a text Kick off your summer with interviews from the UIL State Tennis Tournament. Our fearless co-host, Ruben, interviews UIL Athletic Director, Ray Zepeda and Assistant Athletic Director, Joseph Garmon. Other interviews include Coach of the Year David May [Franklin] and Doug Fair [Frisco Centennial]. Plus coaches from Grapevine and Bellville. Ruben also speaks with SPECIAL GUESTS, the ones we couldn't do this job without- THE athletes. Congratulations to all the State Medalists and Qualifiers! Thank you everyone for listening sure to like, share, and subscribe!

May 12

Send us a text In this episode of the TTCP, host Amanda and Ruben engage in a lively discussion with THE Ann Daniell of Wills Point. We want to congratulate Ann on a successful career and wish her a happy retirement with her family!

Apr 14

Send us a text In this conversation, the hosts discuss the recent tennis tournament, focusing on coaching strategies, player development, and the importance of preparation. They reflect on team performances, the emotional aspects of coaching, and the logistics involved in running a successful tournament. The conversation highlights the dedication of coaches and the unique experiences of players in Texas tennis.

Mar 17

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches Podcast, hosts Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas talk with Troy Simonek to discuss the importance of relationships in coaching, motivational insights from their experiences, and the legacy they aim to leave in the world of tennis. They explore how building a strong team culture and emotional resilience can impact players' lives both on and off the court. The conversation also touches on the role of technology in coaching and the significance of continuous goal-setting for young athletes. In this engaging conversation, Troy Simonek shares his experiences of climbing, coaching, and personal growth. He reflects on a harrowing climbing experience that led to a deeper understanding of fear and resilience. The discussion transitions into the importance of relationships in coaching, the impact of personal challenges on professional life, and the legacy that coaches leave behind. Troy emphasizes the need for connection with players and the significance of teaching life lessons through sports.

Mar 3

Send us a text We have a special interview with Brittany and Brandon Smith, parents and founders of the All Heart Gunner Foundation. Listen to their story about their son Gunner and his battle with pediatric brain cancer. PLUS: It's prom season, and co-host Rueben and his wife Deanna are nominated for the All Heart Prom on March 29! Please consider donating ⁠here⁠ and mention Rueben and Deanna for Prom King and Queen. Your donation will benefit other families affected by pediatric brain cancer. Website: ⁠allheartgunner.com⁠ Facebook & Instagram: All Heart Gunner

Feb 17

Send us a text This conversation delves into the multifaceted approach to youth sports training, emphasizing the importance of building confidence, mastering body weight, and balancing skill development with physical conditioning. The speakers discuss the benefits of bodyweight exercises, the significance of proper technique, and the role of strength and conditioning coaches in fostering long-term athletic development. They also highlight the need for variety in training regimens and the importance of empowering athletes through strength training, all while ensuring that the focus remains on the sport itself. This Roundtable includes: Kelli Quintero, Burkburnett Wendy Justiss, Sterling City Joey Cantue, Boerne Champion Wakeman Chemell, Dallas Baptist University

Feb 2

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches Podcast, Amanda and Ruben discuss strategies for adapting tennis practices during cold weather. They share personal experiences and insights on utilizing indoor facilities, incorporating technology, and ensuring safety for athletes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creativity and resourcefulness in coaching, especially when faced with challenging weather conditions. Coaches are encouraged to find ways to keep their players engaged and active, regardless of the circumstances. Products mentioned in this episode: Fast Track Tennis Apps: FTT Learn, FFT Practice, FFT Play USTA Net Generation

Jan 20

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches podcast, Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas welcome Daniel Marshall, a seasoned tennis coach with a rich history in the sport. The conversation explores Daniel's journey from a young player to a respected coach, his coaching philosophy, and the importance of building strong team dynamics. Daniel shares memorable experiences from his coaching career, the challenges of transitioning between schools, and his aspirations for the future. The episode emphasizes the significance of player development, mentorship, and the joy of coaching. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of tennis coaching, including the significance of court positioning, the structure of effective practice sessions, and the importance of mentorship in the coaching community. They share personal anecdotes from tournaments, emphasizing the lessons learned from both victories and defeats. The discussion also highlights the value of sportsmanship and being a good human in the realm of sports, as well as reflections on the nature of success and the continuous journey of growth as a coach.

Jan 6

Send us a text In this engaging episode, Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas welcome Josh Jones, a passionate tennis coach, who shares his inspiring journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a dedicated mentor for young athletes. The discussion delves into the importance of family influence, community support, and the challenges faced in coaching. Josh emphasizes the significance of building relationships with players and the motivational stories that arise from both triumphs and tragedies in their lives. The conversation concludes with reflections on coaching philosophy and aspirations for the future. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of coaching tennis, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on match strategies, the evolution of the game, and the importance of building relationships with players. They discuss the balance between competition and enjoyment, the impact of personal loss on coaching philosophy, and the significance of understanding each player's unique needs and motivations. The dialogue emphasizes the emotional aspects of coaching and the lasting influence coaches can have on their athletes' lives.

Dec 17, 2024

Send us a text This [extra long] conversation explores the vibrant community of tennis coaches at the 2024 TTCA convention, highlighting the importance of connection, knowledge sharing, and innovative coaching techniques. Ruben and I sat down and spoke with multiple coaches from across the state of Texas to discuss their experiences, the significance of networking, and the evolving landscape of tennis coaching, emphasizing the role of coaches in player development and the need for continuous learning. Thank you to the coaches who sat down with us, TTCA, Wilson, Horseshoe Bay Resort, and THE John Isner for making the 2024 TTCA Convention such an amazing experience!

Dec 2, 2024

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches Podcast, hosts Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas welcome Charlie Sizemore, the head coach of Tyler Legacy. The conversation explores Sizemore's journey to becoming a tennis coach, the importance of leadership and structure in coaching, and motivational insights that can inspire both coaches and players. Sizemore shares impactful stories from his coaching experience, emphasizing the significance of discipline and player development. The episode concludes with reflections on coaching philosophy and the role of gratitude in building strong relationships with players. In this engaging conversation, Coach Sizemore shares his journey from coaching basketball to tennis, emphasizing the importance of summer camps and community involvement. He reflects on his coaching experiences, the role of faith in his life, and his vision for leadership in tennis coaching. The discussion highlights the significance of building a supportive environment for athletes and the dedication required to succeed in coaching. Coach Sizemore concludes with inspiring thoughts on commitment, hard work, and the impact coaches can have on their players' lives.

Nov 18, 2024

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches podcast, hosts Ruben Vargas and Amanda Sterling welcome Rose Bristow, a seasoned junior high tennis coach with over 33 years of experience. Rose shares her journey into tennis, her passion for coaching, and the importance of fostering a love for the game among young players. She discusses her successful coaching philosophy, the significance of community support, and the impact of mentorship in her career. Throughout the conversation, Rose emphasizes the importance of character building and the joy of seeing her students succeed both on and off the court. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of coaching tennis at the junior high level, focusing on warm-up routines, engaging students, building successful programs, and the importance of forming relationships with players. They share personal experiences and strategies for keeping students motivated and involved in the sport, emphasizing the need for creativity in drills and the significance of understanding students' backgrounds and mental health. In this conversation, Rose Bristow shares her extensive experience coaching junior high tennis, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness, positive reinforcement, and the unique challenges of working with young athletes. She discusses the '16 Second Cure' mental strategy, her coaching philosophy, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind. Rose reflects on her career, the impact of her coaching, and her plans for the future, while also offering advice to aspiring coaches. You can email Rose at rbristow831@gmail.com. "Sixteen Second Cure" Dr. Jim Loehr

Nov 6, 2024

Send us a text On this episode, Ruben and Amanda change it up and talk with four coaches in the first-ever TTCP: THE Roundtable. Our special guests are Tony Martinez (Sulphur Springs), Carrie Castleberry (Vernon), Brent Abilez (San Angelo Central), and Sarah Warner (Cameron Yoe). We discuss injuries, substitutions, cheating, etiquette, and more!

Oct 21, 2024

Send us a text We sit down with THE President of TTCA, Keith Howard this week! The conversation delves into the intricacies of team collaboration, exploring the dynamics of group culture, communication strategies, and the challenges teams face. Insights are shared on effective management techniques and personal reflections on team experiences, culminating in a discussion about the future of collaboration in teams.

Oct 14, 2024

Send us a text Summary In this episode, Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas engage in a deep conversation with Vince Sharp, the head coach at Highland Park. They explore various themes related to coaching, including the importance of mental health in schools, motivational insights from coaching experiences, and the innovative techniques Vince employs in his coaching. Vince shares his journey in coaching, the significance of building relationships with players, and the impact of heartbreak on personal and professional growth. The discussion also touches on behavior profiling in coaching and the strengths and weaknesses of Texas high school tennis. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of positive coaching and the role of heart in athlete development.

Oct 7, 2024

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches Podcast, hosts Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas discuss the excitement surrounding the upcoming playoffs for Team Tennis. They reflect on their own experiences during playoff seasons, emphasizing the importance of celebrating achievements while remaining humble. The conversation also touches on the challenges coaches face during playoffs, the significance of preparing future leaders, and the upcoming Texas Tennis Coaches Association convention.

Sep 23, 2024

Send us a text Tyson Stewart shares his coaching journey and experiences, including moving to different schools and the support of his wife. He discusses his coaching philosophy and the importance of having fun and building relationships with his players. Tyson discusses memorable matches, the importance of building relationships with players, the value of teaching character, and the unique camaraderie among tennis coaches. They emphasize the significance of enjoying the journey, focusing on personal growth, and creating lasting memories. The conversation also touches on the generational aspect of coaching and the importance of preserving the sport of tennis through strong relationships and fellowship among coaches.

Sep 16, 2024

Send us a text In this conversation, Meagan Vargas, head tennis coach at McKinney Boyd High School, discusses her coaching journey and the importance of tradition and relationships in sports. She emphasizes the need for coaches to ask questions and seek mentorship, as well as the challenges of being a coach's kid. Meagan also highlights the frustrations of coaching, such as the lack of recognition and low pay, but finds the most rewarding aspect to be the impact she has on her players' lives.

Sep 16, 2024

Send us a text In this episode, Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas continue their conversation about their coaching journeys. Ruben shares his story of growing up in a big family, getting involved in a gang in his youth, and eventually finding his passion for tennis. He talks about his experience playing tennis in high school and college, and how he became a coach. Ruben emphasizes the importance of giving your all and working hard, and shares stories of influential coaches in his life. He also discusses the success of his coaching career and the impact he has had on his players. Ruben Vargas shares the story of how his name ended up on the tennis courts at Vernon High School, highlighting the pride and significance it holds for his family. He also reflects on his coaching career, the impact he had on his players, and the blessings he received. Vargas emphasizes the importance of coaching and the positive influence it can have on young athletes. He shares his experiences at TTCA and the recognition he received as a coach. Vargas concludes by expressing his gratitude for his supportive family and the joy he finds in retirement.

Sep 2, 2024

Send us a text Thank you for 250 downloads! As a way to show our appreciation, here is THE Jorge Capestany! Check out his website: TennisDrills.tv Jorge Capestany shares his personal story and journey in the tennis coaching game. Born in Havana, Cuba, Jorge and his family left during the Cuban missile crisis and settled in the United States. He discovered his love for tennis in high school and went on to become a successful coach, working with high-performance players and winning gold balls. Jorge created TennisDrills.tv, the world's largest tennis video library, with over 2000 drills and 140 courses. He emphasizes the importance of coach education and tailoring drills to specific skill areas. Jorge's drills focus on the five-play situations in tennis and prioritize ball count to maximize improvement. Jorge Capestany emphasizes the importance of making tennis drills fun and competitive.

Aug 12, 2024

Send us a text In this episode, Ruben Vargas interviews Amanda Sterling, the head coach at Academy High School in Little River Academy. Amanda shares her journey from being a shy child to becoming a successful tennis player and coach. She talks about her experiences playing college tennis and how she transitioned into coaching. Amanda emphasizes the importance of building trust with her athletes and the challenges of coaching at a small school. She also discusses the impact of attending the Texas Tennis Coaches Association convention and the value of networking with other coaches.

Aug 5, 2024

Send us a text In this episode of the Texas Tennis Coaches podcast, Amanda and Ruben check in with their listeners and express their gratitude for the support they have received. They discuss the excitement and anticipation of the upcoming tennis season, as well as the importance of staying hydrated and following safety guidelines in hot weather. They also mention the upcoming Texas Tennis Coaches Association Convention and tease a special keynote speaker. The hosts share their plans for future episodes, including interviews with coaches, trainers, athletic directors, and parents. They encourage coaches to have a positive and enthusiastic mindset and to embrace the privilege of coaching.

Jul 29, 2024

Send us a text The Texas Tennis Coaches podcast is a collaboration between Amanda Sterling and Ruben Vargas, aimed at highlighting coaches in Texas, specifically tennis coaches. The idea for the podcast came about during the Texas Tennis Coaches Association convention, where they realized the importance of sharing coaches' stories and advice. The podcast will feature successful coaches from various backgrounds, sharing their experiences and insights. Amanda and Ruben are open to guests from all walks of the coaching world, including non-tennis coaches, ADs, and strength and conditioning coordinators. They are excited to build the podcast and provide valuable content for coaches and tennis enthusiasts.