Current Nominations
As nominations come in, they will be listed on this page. After reading each nomination, you will then be able to submit your selection from the vote button.
2026 Award Categories and Nominees
NEW THIS YEAR 2026 …. IOWA District COMMITMENT AWARDS!
Boys Commitment Award 18U:
Boys Commitment Award 14U:
Girls Commitment Award 18U:
Lizelle Landino, Dubuque, IA: Lizelle is very passionate about her tennis craft in her engagement with the girls at all levels. During Lizelle’s training sessions with the girls she provides demonstrable evidences of the expectations on and of the courts. She is always teaching good sportsmanship and behavior during practices and tournaments. Lizelle never talks down on the girls actions at practices or games. She often empathizes positive affinity towards practices and despite the results.
Moreover, Lizelle is very approachable on and off the tennis courts. My daughter is always willing to adhere to Lizelle’s advice as I am just an avid tennis parent without any technical knowledge and background of playing tennis. Therefore, we see Lizelle as a valuable help in my daughter’s development as a tennis player and prospective collegiate tennis player.
Girls Commitment Award 14U:
Girls Sportsmanship 10U:
Boys Sportsmanship 10U:
Girls Sportsmanship 12U:
Boys Sportsmanship 12U:
Girls Sportsmanship 14U:
Boys Sportsmanship 14U:
Nedim Sabanagic, Dubuque, IA: Iowa USTA Boys 14 & Under Player of the Year Nomination
It is my pleasure to nominate Nedim Sabanagic for the Iowa USTA Boys 14 & Under Player of the Year Award.
Nedim has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the game of tennis through outstanding competitive results, exemplary sportsmanship, and strong character both on and off the court. Throughout the past year, he has consistently represented the values of the USTA with integrity, respect, and determination.
As a competitor, Nedim has worked tirelessly to improve his game, competing in USTA tournaments at a high level while displaying resilience, discipline, and a positive attitude. His accomplishments include a current ranking of number 8 in Iowa and winning the 14 and under singles title at the Midlands junior tournament in Iowa City.
Beyond his results, what truly distinguishes Nedim is his sportsmanship. He treats opponents, officials, coaches, and spectators with respect, competes fairly, and handles both victories and defeats with maturity. He serves as a role model for younger players by encouraging others and demonstrating honesty and humility in every match.
Off the court, Nedim is equally impressive. He volunteers when opportunities arise, supports fellow teammates, and demonstrates leadership through his actions. His commitment to excellence, work ethic, and positive influence make him an outstanding ambassador for the sport of tennis.
For these reasons, I wholeheartedly recommend Nedim for the Iowa USTA Boys 14 & Under Player of the Year Award. He embodies the values of the USTA and is truly deserving of this recognition.
Sincerely,
Michael /D Shires
Director of Tennis
North Dodge Athletic Club
Girls Sportsmanship 16U:
Alexa Perugini, Urbandale, IA: I am honored to nominate Alexa Perugini for the Junior Sportsmanship Award. Over the years, Alexa has consistently demonstrated the highest level of sportsmanship, integrity, and respect for the game across USTA tournaments, Junior Circuit events, and team environments. She is a current USTA member and has no Code of Conduct issues on record.
In March of this year, Alexa won the 16U National Sportsmanship Award at a National Level 3 Open tournament. Here is the link, you need to select “National Level 3 Open March”
https://www.usta.com/en/home/about-usta/usta-awards/national/national-junior-sportsmanship-awards.html#accordion-a952d22980-item-7fb022d4d5
Alexa is the kind of junior player who elevates every environment she enters. She competes with intensity but never loses sight of fairness, kindness, and respect toward her opponents. Her behavior on and off the court reflects the values USTA aims to instill in young athletes. For these reasons, I proudly nominate Alexa for the Junior Sportsmanship Award.
Boys Sportsmanship 16U:
Girls Sportsmanship 18U:
Boys Sportsmanship 18U:
Adult Player of the Year:
Kevin Johnson, Bettendorf, IA: I am pleased to nominate Kevin Johnston of Bettendorf for the 2026 USTA Iowa Adult Player of the Year. Kevin’s results this season certainly make him deserving of consideration, but what stands out to me most is the way he competes and what he brings to every tournament he enters.
Kevin has been one of the most active and consistent adult competitors in Iowa this year. He competed across the state in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, while also representing Iowa through USTA League and Missouri Valley competition.
His 2026 accomplishments include:
* Finalist in singles at the USTA Missouri Valley 55+ NTRP & Open Tournament
* Waterloo Open: Open singles semifinalist and Open doubles finalist
* Mississippi Valley Open: Open mixed doubles champion while also competing in Open singles and doubles
* Baird Open: Mixed doubles quarterfinalist while also competing in Open singles and doubles
* Wartburg Round Robin: Won every round of his bracket
* Midlands: Open doubles finalist and reached the Round of 16 in Open singles
* Competed successfully in 18 & Over 4.5 USTA League and participated in the Iowa District Championships
That résumé demonstrates something I believe is particularly important for this award: Kevin plays.
He supports adult tennis by showing up. He enters tournaments throughout Iowa, plays multiple divisions, participates in USTA League, and is willing to compete against strong players at the Open level. Adult tennis in Iowa is stronger when accomplished players continue to enter events and support the tournament circuit, and Kevin has done exactly that throughout 2026.
His results, however, tell only part of the story.
Despite his success, Kevin remains remarkably balanced and calm on the court. He competes hard without allowing winning and losing to overshadow the values that make tennis special. He demonstrates sportsmanship, respect for opponents, composure, and a genuine enjoyment of competition. He represents many of the virtues we hope players develop through a lifetime in tennis.
As a tournament director, I am always happy when I see Kevin’s name on an entry list. He is competitive, but he is also simply fun to have at an event. He interacts positively with other players, contributes to the atmosphere surrounding a tournament, and makes the experience better for the people around him.
One moment at the Waterloo Open particularly captured why I believe Kevin deserves this recognition. After finishing his own match, Kevin was approached by another player who had a question about technique. Instead of simply packing his bag and leaving, Kevin took the time to work with the player and help him.
It was a small interaction, but it said a great deal about Kevin.
Even in the middle of a tournament in which he was pursuing his own competitive goals, he was willing to stop and share his knowledge with someone else. That willingness to help others is consistent with Kevin’s larger involvement in the sport as both a competitor and instructor.
Kevin represents what adult tennis should look like. He competes frequently and successfully. He supports tournaments throughout Iowa. He participates in USTA League. He challenges himself against strong competition in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. And through all of it, he treats opponents and fellow players with respect and remembers that tennis is ultimately a community.
There may be players with individual titles or impressive records, but Adult Player of the Year should recognize more than wins and losses. It should recognize someone whose participation, performance, sportsmanship, and character make adult tennis better in Iowa.
In 2026, Kevin Johnston has done exactly that.
For his outstanding competitive results, his commitment to supporting adult tennis throughout Iowa, his sportsmanship, and the positive example he provides to others, I strongly recommend Kevin Johnston as the 2026 USTA Iowa Adult Player of the Year.
Emerging Male Junior Player of the Year:
William Feagler, Iowa City, IA: William is actively participating in the L2, L3, and L4 levels of USTA tournaments and showing some success. He was also Iowa's 2026 State Champion. As of the 8/19/26 ranking pull for B16s, he is ranked 209th nationally, 8th in the Missouri Valley, and 4th in Iowa.
Emerging Female Player of the Year:
Maddie Shell, Ankeny, IA: Maddie is one of the nicest players you will meet (ask her coaches and opponents), but through this process, she is also growing into a great competitor! As a 13/14 year old, she has only played in G16s & G18s divisions in L6s in the past year and has shown great results (nothing less than 3rd place)!
L6 DMGCC Fall - 9/11/25-9/13/25 - 1st Place G16s
L6 Genesis Fall - 11/6/25 - 11/8/25 - 1st Place G16s
L6 Genesis Thanksgiving - 11/27/25 - 11/29/25 - 3rd Place G16
L6 Genesis February - 2/26/26 - 2/28/26 - 2nd Place G16
L6 Genesis Spirng - 4/9/26 - 4/11/26 - 3rd Place G16
L6 DMGCC Spring - 5/7/26 - 5/9/26 - 3rd Place G16
L6 McCullom - 6/25/26 - 6/27/26 - 1st Place G18
L6 DMGCC Summer - 7/7/26 - 7/9/26 - 3rd Place G18
She is into her first high school season now, and I can't wait to see how she does.
Junior High Performance Male Player of the Year:
Vincent Flynn, Clive, IA: Vincent is actively participating in national-level (L1, L2, and L3) tournaments; most recently, he was accepted into and participated in Hard Court Nationals. As of the 8/19/26 ranking pull, he is ranked 142nd nationally (6th in the Missouri Valley and 3rd in Iowa). He is planning to take his game to the next level through training and has high goals of competing at the collegiate level.
Junior High Performance Female Player of the Year:
Alexa Perugini, Urbandale, IA: As Alexa’s coach/parent, I’ve had the privilege of watching her grow into one of the most dedicated, disciplined, and high character junior athletes in our state. Over the past few years, Alexa has shown remarkable commitment to competing at the highest levels of USTA play, consistently pushing herself to rise to every challenge. Her work ethic, sportsmanship, and steady progression make her an outstanding candidate for the High Performance player of the Year.
Alexa doesn’t just show up to compete; she shows up to get better. She embraces tough draws, seeks out the strongest tournaments available, and carries herself with maturity well beyond her age. Whether she’s battling through long matches or supporting her HS peers, she represents everything you hope to see in a high performance junior athlete.
Alexa has been playing and competing in USTA tournaments for the last 5 years and she currently plays L3, L4 and L5 tournaments. She is usually ranked top 3 in our state in her age group and holds a national ranking. Last summer, she won her flight at an L4 in WI. This year, she played a Dom Duo L3 in AZ and she won the USTA National Sportsmanship Award in 16U. In September, she will be playing the Valley Team Cup (L3 Closed) in Topeka, KS and the L3 Dom Duo in Edmond, OK.
She has gone through a hard couple of years as she had to battle an injury that took her out for 6 months. At the end of last year, I (mom/coach) was diagnosed with cancer so her tournament travel and competition slowed down a little bit, which made her ranking and stats fall. I have now recovered and we are back at it and she is even more motivated than ever to keep improving. Alexa has no code of conduct issues and continues to earn praise for her respectful, composed court presence. She treats opponents, officials, and coaches with genuine respect and consistently models the type of sportsmanship we want younger players to emulate.
Alexa’s accomplishments over the years speak for themselves, but what truly sets her apart is her character, her humility, her drive, and her willingness to do the hard work required to succeed. She has earned every step of her progress, and I’m proud to nominate her for the Junior High Performance Player of the Year.
Addison Latta, Urbandale, IA: Addison is actively participating at the highest USTA tournament level (L1, L2, L3 Open, L3 Closed). As of the 8/19/26 ranking pull, she ranks 75th nationally, 3rd in the Missouri Valley, and 1st in Iowa. She also consistently wins Sportsmanship Awards at national-level tournaments. We can't forget she won Iowa High School State as a freshman in 2025.
Tennis Family of the Year:
Joseph and Janet Toe, Waterloo, IA: I am proud to nominate the Joseph Toe family for Tennis Family of the Year. Their story is not one built around country clubs, private academies, or a lifetime of formal tennis instruction. Instead, it is a story of a father and daughter who discovered a shared love for tennis and, through extraordinary passion, persistence, and generosity, have used the sport to build each other—and those around them—up.
Joseph did not grow up with extensive tennis experience. When he fell in love with the sport, however, he committed himself completely to learning it. He studied every instructional video he could find, worked to understand the technical and strategic sides of the game, and then began sharing what he learned. What started with training his daughter, Janet, and some of his nieces grew into something larger. Joseph discovered that his greatest passion in tennis was not his own success, but helping others discover what they were capable of accomplishing.
Joseph has competed himself, including participation in 3.5-level tournaments, but his greatest contribution to tennis happens away from his own matches. I personally see him working with players two or three times in a single day, whether that means training Janet or helping local kids from the community in whom he sees potential. He gives his time, knowledge, and energy freely. There is rarely fanfare surrounding what he does. He simply sees a young person who wants to improve and gets to work.
That willingness to invest in others embodies the volunteer spirit this award represents. Joseph has helped provide opportunities for young players without requiring a formal title, paycheck, or recognition. His coaching comes from the simple belief that if a young person has potential and a desire to learn, someone should be willing to help them.
At the center of the Toe family’s tennis story is the relationship between Joseph and Janet. Tennis has become a love language shared between a father and his daughter. I regularly see Joseph traveling to junior tournaments to provide Janet with opportunities to compete and develop. Those tournaments have taken them throughout the district, requiring countless hours of travel, practice, preparation, and sacrifice.
Their commitment can sometimes appear extreme to someone looking from the outside. It is not unusual to see them practicing again after Janet has already played a tournament. Someone might assume that is a father pushing his daughter to do more. Anyone who knows the two of them, however, knows the response they would give immediately: Janet is usually the one asking her dad for the extra practice. That detail says a great deal about this family.
Joseph has helped cultivate a love of tennis rather than simply demanding results from it. Together, father and daughter have learned how to work hard, pursue ambitious goals, respond to setbacks, and continually search for the right balance between competitive drive and a healthy life. Watching them navigate that process has been truly inspiring.
The results of that dedication are remarkable. Without the traditional advantage of extensive club training, Janet has traveled throughout the district competing in junior tournaments and has developed into an accomplished high school player, becoming a three-time state qualifier. Her success has been built through personal drive, countless hours on the court, and the dedication of a father willing to learn alongside her.
But the strongest argument for the Toe family is not Janet’s state qualifications or Joseph’s tournament participation. It is what happens because of their presence in the tennis community.
Other young players see their work ethic. Families see their commitment. Kids in the community receive opportunities because Joseph is willing to stop, recognize their potential, and invest his own time in helping them improve. Their example demonstrates that meaningful tennis development does not have to begin with privilege, expensive training, or generations of experience. Sometimes it begins with a parent willing to learn, a child eager to work, a public tennis court, and two people who love the game enough to keep coming back.
The positive reputation the Toe family has developed within the tennis community has been earned one practice, one tournament, one trip, and one player at a time. They represent some of the very best qualities of amateur tennis: family, volunteerism, perseverance, mentorship, opportunity, and a genuine love of the game.
The Toe family’s story reminds us of something wonderfully simple: tennis truly begins with love. Joseph found a sport he loved, shared that love with his daughter, and then extended it to others in his community. Janet took that opportunity and turned it into her own passion and accomplishments. Together, they have shown how tennis can strengthen a family while simultaneously strengthening the tennis community around it.
For their dedication to developing young players, their commitment to competition, their volunteer spirit, and above all the example they provide to other tennis families, I enthusiastically nominate the Joseph Toe family for Tennis Family of the Year.
Jahangir Family, Iowa City, IA: Our tennis staff at the Hawkeye Tennis and Recreation Complex would like to nominate the Jahangir Family as the USTA Iowa Family of the Year.
Each member of the family plays tennis and represents the sport in an admirable way.
We see all of their family members at the HTRC on a regular basis attending drills, Cardio tennis, tournaments, leagues or playing on their own. More importantly, we appreciate their attitudes while they are participating in tennis. They are hard working, enthusiastic, ethical and fun.
Here is a list of each family member's involvement in the game: Jahangir Family of the Year
a. Hilary, the mom, plays on 4 USTA teams. She attends 2-3 drill groups a week plus around 4 Cardio tennis classes each week. She enthusiastically supports all of her kids in tennis.
b. Avi, the oldest son, plays for West High on the JV and Varsity team. During the school year, he attends our high performance Academy class 4 hours a week plus takes a weekly private lesson. He also participates in USTA tournaments from WTN to L7s to L6s. This summer, Avi became an HTRC Tennis Instructor and is already having an impact on other kids.
c. Zariah, the daughter, plays for West High on the Varsity squad. She also attends our Academy class and takes a private lesson once a week. She practices extra during the off season with her high school team. Zariah participates in WTN, L7 and L6 tournaments.
d. Eli, the youngest son, attends our Academy program 4 hours a week during the school year and occasional camps during the summer. He takes a private lesson once a week and participates in WTN, L7 and L6 tournaments.
e. Riaz, the dad, will occasionally play tennis and has been known to jump in and play in a tournament. He organizes the kids’ tennis schedules for classes and tournaments and is a positive tennis parent.
We think the Jahangir family would be an outstanding choice to be the USTA Iowa Family of the Year!
Michele Conlon, Head Tennis Professional HTRC and tennis staff.
Karen Sissel Family, Des Moines, IA:
Beck - 20 - playing Wisconsin La Crosse, been playing juniors for 12 years
Teaches tennis privately and at Wakonda. Volunteers for Central Iowa Tennis Alliance programs. Started RSPA certification by completing Level 1.
Joel - father. plays USTA adult leagues. - Just went to St Louis for regional 55 +; Coaches Valley High School boys team; Helps with CITA teen Clinics;
Coaches his son; published a book: "Random Ambiguity"
Karen: Mom: Head coach Girls Lincoln High School. Asst Coach - Boys team at Lincoln; Helps CITA and WCRS (Women Coaching Racquet Sports) with programming and clinics;
USTA Leagues: Women's 3.0 and Plays Mixed First Division with Joel in GDMTA CTA Ladder; Volunteers many hours to help new high school players learn the game. Recently became RSPA certified, Level 1
Karen is one of the best coaches in Central Iowa because of her ability and character to bring together teen girls on the high school team. The caring culture is truly one of the best I have ever experienced. The genuine compassion, support, and commitment to others create an environment where girls feel valued, respected, and cared for.
Member Organization of the Year:
Quad City Tennis Club and or Bi State Tennis Association, Moline, IL: I’m not sure if this is best for member organization or cta of the year, but I am proud to nominate the Quad City Racket Club for Member Organization of the Year. The club has distinguished itself not simply by providing courts and programming for its own players, but by recognizing that a great tennis facility has a responsibility to strengthen the entire tennis community around it.
Through its leadership, partnerships, tournament support, player development, and willingness to open its facilities to new ideas, the Quad City Racket Club has become an important part of the tennis ecosystem in the Quad Cities and throughout USTA Iowa.
Opening the Doors to Tennis
One of the greatest services a member organization can provide is access. Quad City Racket Club has demonstrated a willingness to share its facilities and resources for programs designed to grow the sport.
The club has supported clinics, informational sessions, Red Ball tournaments and programming, and initiatives encouraging women to become involved in sports. This willingness to provide space for activities extending beyond traditional club programming demonstrates a commitment to tennis as a community resource.
The philosophy is important: the courts are not valuable simply because they exist. Their greatest value comes from the opportunities created on them.
Supporting USTA Competition
Quad City Racket Club provides significant support for the competitive pathway by hosting adult and junior district-level tournaments and creating opportunities for players to participate in organized tennis throughout the year.
At the introductory level, its community partners have helped establish monthly Junior Circuit opportunities, regularly filling approximately 8–12 player brackets. These events give developing players a manageable first step into competitive tennis.
The club and its tennis leaders are also working to incorporate USTA coaching resources and technology into player development and appropriate player leveling, helping juniors progress through competition at a pace that supports long-term development.
Just as importantly, players have somewhere to go after that introductory stage. By supporting district-level tournaments and more advanced training, the organization helps create a pathway rather than a collection of disconnected programs.
Developing Players From Local Courts to the National Stage
The quality of a tennis organization can also be measured by what becomes possible for the players who grow within its environment.
The Quad Cities tennis community has helped train and elevate juniors including Conor Feehan, Madelynn Jepsen, and Nicholas Patrick, who have progressed to competition on the national stage.
Those accomplishments represent more than individual success. They show younger players what is possible.
When a beginning player can enter a local Junior Circuit event and then look across the courts and see athletes from the same community succeeding at increasingly high levels, the competitive pathway becomes tangible. The next generation can envision itself following the same road.
Leadership Beyond the Club
The organization’s impact also reaches into the administration and development of tennis throughout the district.
Ernie Katko now serves as Junior Competition Chair and has become an important voice in district and section discussions. His involvement demonstrates the club community’s willingness to contribute expertise beyond its own programs.
Ernie also helped develop the Summer Slam junior tournament series, an effort designed to highlight existing tournaments, encourage greater participation, and strengthen the culture of competitive junior tennis throughout Iowa.
This is precisely the kind of service that distinguishes an outstanding member organization: its leaders do not ask only, What is best for our facility? They also ask, What is best for tennis?
Creating New Reasons to Play
Quad City Racket Club has also demonstrated that tradition and innovation can coexist.
The recent construction of grass courts has created a distinctive tennis experience and opened the door for creative adult programming. The club is using those courts to generate excitement and provide innovative play opportunities that give adults another reason to pick up a racket and participate.
That investment reflects an organization that is thinking beyond simply maintaining existing participation. It is looking for ways to make tennis interesting, social, competitive, and memorable.
A Community Partner
The most compelling aspect of Quad City Racket Club’s work is its willingness to collaborate with others.
Successful tennis communities rarely grow because one club or organization attempts to do everything itself. They grow when facilities, coaches, volunteers, CTAs, schools, USTA leadership, parents, and players recognize that they are working toward the same goal.
Quad City Racket Club has embraced that philosophy.
Its support for junior and adult tournaments strengthens competition. Its willingness to host clinics and educational events increases access. Its junior development efforts help beginners find the correct competitive pathway. Its advanced player development demonstrates what can be achieved. Its leaders contribute to district and section initiatives. And its investment in innovative programming creates new excitement around the sport.
The result is an organization whose impact extends well beyond its membership.
Quad City Racket Club is not merely providing a place to play tennis. It is helping build a community around tennis.
For its service to junior and adult players, support of USTA competition, development of nationally competitive juniors, willingness to share its facilities, innovative programming, community partnerships, and leadership within USTA Iowa and the Missouri Valley, I enthusiastically nominate the Quad City Racket Club for Member Organization of the Year or the bistate tennis association for cta of the year.
Genesis Health Club, Clive, IA: I am nominating Genesis Health Club for member organization of the year. Genesis offers tennis opportunities for players of all ages. They offer: USTA red, orange, green, and yellowball, Little Champions, Futures, and elite academy for junior players, USTA junior tournaments, Private and group lessons, USTA adult league play, Grip and rip, house leagues, adult Try Tennis Clinics, tennis mixer socials, and tennis fundraisers for a cause. The staff is friendly, encouraging, knowledgeable, and keeps players of all ages engaged in tennis. I am a member and I wouldn't want to play anywhere else!
Facility of the Year:
Quad City Tennis Club, Moline, IL: The Quad City Tennis Club just opened up the first public grass courts in the Missouri valley region (From what we have been told). We are also hosting a USTA tournament on Grass on August 29-30. Our Facility also features 6 indoor tennis courts, 9 indoor pickleball courts, and 2 outdoor hard courts.
Outstanding Community Tennis Association:
Outstanding Contributor to Youth Tennis Programs:
Lizelle Landino, Dubuque, IA: I'd like to nominate Lizelle for the Outstanding Contributor to the Youth Tennis Program Award. My daughters, aged seven and eight, have been taking lessons since they were four. Since they started playing, they’ve improved tremendously as tennis players, going from red ball to green ball, and now incorporating yellow ball. It’s amazing to watch them learn and grow, but especially to see them love the game.
Lizelle does wonderfully connecting with the kids and makes playing fun. My girls especially like hearing about her life in South Africa, and her experiences as a competitive tennis player.
I'm so grateful for the positive influence Lizelle has on my girls and others she coaches. They have gained tennis skills, confidence, sportsmanship and friendships. She encourages them, challenges them and celebrates their progress.
We are so fortunate to have Lizelle’s dedication and passion for coaching in our community.
Lizelle Landino, Dubuque, IA: Lizelle has been instrumental in working with youth tennis. Starting with the very young of 4-5 years old and into high school age. The high school level players is where I have benefited from her expertise since I've been coaching high school tennis for the past 11 years and many of our top players can be traced back to Lizelle working with them as a coach and even taking them to tournaments around the State of Iowa.
Lizelle's passion and enthusiasm with the young kids is what gets them hooked on tennis as a lifelong sport and lifestyle.
Outstanding Contributor to Youth High Performance Program:
Fred Pedersen, Iowa City, IA: I would like to nominate Fred Pedersen for his contributions to High Performance Players in Iowa. Fred leads our Hawkeye Tennis Academy program 3 days a week by developing lesson plans, research new content and executing the classes. All of the players participate in USTA tournaments and some go off to play college tennis. He coaches the State Singles Champion for this past spring as well as both of the Doubles Champions for high school.
Fred serves as the Assistant Coach for West High Boys and volunteers for the West High Girls tennis program.
He gives private lessons regularly to many of our high performance players (of all ages) and takes time to watch them at our tournaments and provide feedback. He also helps with our local tournaments we run for our high performance players.
Fred is knowledgeable, experienced, ethical and passionate. I think he would be a great, dedicated recipient of this award.
Genesis Health Club, Clive, IA: Answers below based on the criteria provided:
-Players ranked in the Top 500 based on Divisions: G12(2), G14 (1), B14 (2), B16 (1)
-Players making it to the Quarters and beyond in national USTA tournaments: Vincent Flynn, Roman Taylor, Austin Jansen, Lisa Lu
-Players who are top finishers in top section events - Level 3 Closed Ralley in the Valley:
Roman Taylor - 4th Place B14
Vincent Flynn - 3rd Place B16 Singles, 1st Place B16 Doubles
-Players who earn sportsmanship awards:
Roman Taylor B14 Overall Sportsmanship at Ralley in the Valley (L3)
Vincent Flynn Battle of the Sections (L2) Overall Sportsmanship
Required:
● Must be a current USTA Member: Yes
● Must be Safe Play approved: Yes (Ryan Roeth)
Bonus factors:
● Certified with either organization (RSPA and PTR), and be current on their education and dues, and be in good standing with the certifying organizations: Yes (Ryan Roeth)
● Current USTA Coaching member: Yes (Ryan Roeth)
● Completed a USTA High Performance program: Yes (Ryan Roeth)
● Give back by coaching Section or National Team Events, or volunteering time in the community: Yes - L3 Closed Team Event Coach - Ryan Roeth
USTA Junior Team Tennis Organizer:
Outstanding Contributor to the USTA League Tennis Program:
Todd Versteeg, Urbandale, IA: Todd has captained several USTA teams for several years: mens 3.5 40+, mens 3.5 18+, and mens 4.0 18+. Todd is an outstanding captain! He organizes practices, lineups, meets, travel for sectionals, and is always looking to bring new players to USTA leagues. Keeping three teams of adult men organized isn't easy, but Todd gets it done. All of Todd's 3.5 teams qualify for sectionals every year.
Outstanding Adult/Senior Tennis Tournament:
Outstanding Junior Tennis Tournament:
Outstanding Official:
Sheila Goins, Iowa City, IA: Sheila Goins is a USTA Iowa Official and has been for several years. She and her husband recently moved back to Iowa City from Kansas City, MO where the tennis community is thriving. When she moved back to Iowa City, she wanted to get back into USTA officiating and encourage the fair and competitive play of the tennis community here. She saw this as an opportunity to "move the needle" towards improving tennis etiquette and fair play here, after experiencing the KS City tennis community.
Sheila graciously agreed to officiate at both of our Great River Tennis Association Junior Tournaments. Our first one was our L7 on June 24th, 2026, and our second one was our L6 tournament July 11-12, 2026. Having Sheila officiate and lead by example at our GRTA Junior tournaments made them go off without a hitch! She helped the new tennis parents and their kids learn about proper tennis etiquette and provided sound advice and guidance that will improve the entire tennis experience.
Having an official at GRTA's Junior tennis tournaments will be a regular, every time, occurrence. They take the pressure or weight off of tournament directors, which allows TD's to just do the directing of the tournament, and not have to worry or deal with difficult rule and behavior issues that may occur on or off the court. USTA officials are invaluable to TD's and should be utilized more, in my opinion. Another great benefit of using officials, is that you can apply for USTA Official Grants, to cover the costs of hiring an official. It's a WIN-WIN! I was able to get two Officials grants to cover all of the expenses of hiring Sheila to make my job as a TD a breeze. Thank you, Sheila; for doing what you do to make tennis tournaments run smoothly and stress free for us TD's!
High School Coach of the Year:
Chris Miller, Dubuque Iowa: I am proud to nominate Chris Miller, Head Tennis Coach at Dubuque Senior High School, for High School Coach of the Year. Over the past five seasons, Chris has demonstrated what sustained high school program development should look like. The success of his teams can be seen in their improving results, but the greater accomplishment is the culture he has created—one that develops players from the ground up, puts students first, and builds a genuine love of tennis that extends well beyond the high school season.
Building a Program Through Grassroots Development
Chris has always taken a grassroots approach to building his program. Rather than measuring the potential of his team solely by the experienced players who arrive on the first day of practice, he sees development as one of his primary responsibilities as a coach.
That philosophy has produced tangible results. Over the past five seasons, Dubuque Senior has demonstrated a clear upward trajectory in its competitive success and win-loss performance. That improvement has not happened overnight. It has been the product of years of developing players, strengthening the program from top to bottom, and creating an environment where athletes at every ability level have an opportunity to improve.
Chris is willing to invest in the beginner just as much as the varsity player. His program demonstrates that competitive success and inclusive player development do not have to be opposing goals. By developing the entire roster, he has helped create greater depth, stronger players, and a sustainable high school tennis program.
Going Beyond the High School Season
Some of Chris’s most important work occurs when the high school season is over.
He dedicates many additional hours during the summer to providing opportunities for players of all levels to continue developing. Those hours demonstrate a commitment that extends beyond what is required of a high school coach. His goal is not simply to prepare a lineup for the next dual meet; it is to help young people become tennis players who will remain connected to the sport.
Chris also actively encourages his athletes to participate in USTA tournaments during the offseason, providing his players with a pathway to continue competing and improving when high school tennis is not in season.
One particularly meaningful example of his support for tennis beyond the high school season is that Chris does not simply tell his players to participate—he participates alongside them. He has played in a USTA coed mixed doubles tournament with leaders from his own program. Experiences like this break down the idea that tennis ends when the high school season ends. His athletes see firsthand that tennis can remain a competitive, social, and enjoyable part of their lives long after graduation.
A Student-First Philosophy
At the heart of Chris’s program is a simple philosophy: students come first.
He understands that high school athletics should develop more than a player’s forehand, serve, or match record. His approach supports the physical, mental, and emotional development of his athletes while maintaining the fun that attracted many of them to tennis in the first place.
That balance is important. Chris expects players to improve and compete, but he does not allow the pursuit of wins to overshadow the purpose of high school athletics. Players of different backgrounds and ability levels are valued, challenged, and given opportunities to grow.
The result is a program where athletes can take tennis seriously without losing their enjoyment of the game.
Leadership and Sportsmanship
Chris’s influence also extends throughout the Mississippi Valley Conference. His voice and perspective are appreciated among his fellow coaches, and he approaches competition with respect for opposing teams and for the larger health of high school tennis.
The best coaches understand that their responsibility extends beyond advocating for their own lineup. They contribute to the sport itself. Chris has consistently demonstrated that perspective through his professionalism, sportsmanship, and willingness to contribute to conversations affecting tennis throughout the conference.
That leadership complements the environment he establishes for his athletes. By modeling respect for opponents, fellow coaches, and the game itself, he teaches sportsmanship through his own actions.
Creating Tennis Players, Not Just High School Players
Perhaps the strongest measure of Chris Miller’s impact is that he is helping create tennis players rather than simply high school tennis players.
His athletes are encouraged to play during the summer. They are encouraged to enter USTA tournaments. They see their coach participating in tennis himself. Beginners are given opportunities to develop, while experienced players are challenged to reach higher levels. Through all of it, Chris emphasizes that tennis should remain fun.
Over five seasons, that philosophy has translated into improved competitive results for Dubuque Senior, but it has also accomplished something more lasting: it has created a culture in which players want to continue playing.
High school win-loss records eventually become numbers in an archive. The greater legacy of a coach is found in the players who leave the program loving tennis more than when they entered it.
Chris Miller is accomplishing both.
He has helped Dubuque Senior become increasingly competitive while maintaining a grassroots, student-first philosophy. He gives significant additional time during the summer to developing athletes at every level, encourages participation in USTA tournaments, personally demonstrates lifelong participation in the sport, maintains high standards of sportsmanship, and provides a respected voice within the Mississippi Valley Conference.
For his sustained program growth, dedication to player development, support of USTA competition, leadership within high school tennis, and commitment to making tennis a sport his athletes can enjoy for a lifetime, I enthusiastically nominate Chris Miller of Dubuque Senior High School for High School Coach of the Year.
Jedadiah Hammen, Boone, IA: Jed is a passionate high school coach at Boone High School. He puts the player first! Jed provides unlimited resources for his players to improve throughout the summer months. Jed has both a high school and middle school summer camp. The middle schoolers are taught/mentored by the high schoolers. Jed brings in professional speakers during the season to mentor his team. Jed works closely with the parents provide dinners before matches. Each off season Boones top players play over 100 matches. Most of the matches are USTA tournaments around Iowa. Jed works with college coaches to provide tennis instruction to his varsity players in the summer. Jed also runs the Iowa Game Tennis Tournament in the Boone.
Jedadiah Hammen, Boone, IA: Jed has been the head coach at Boone High School for 10 year (I believe this is correct). In 2024 he started a middle school program that has increased the tennis numbers at Boone. His players love him because of his ability to care, provide guidance, and meet them where they are at. He believes in them. Jeb works tirelessly to ensure his Boys team can reach their full potential. His passion and love for the game sets him apart from other coaches.
Mark Hanson, Iowa City, IA: Here is the email I promised regarding Mark and his tennis background, love of the game and his willingness to give back in a big way to the game. His high school boys tennis coaching career started back in 1984 as assistant to coach Bill Lane 84-86 at Waterloo West High School. He then was head coach from 1986-1992 with a State Championship Team in 1991. Mark is now the Head Ottumwa High School boys tennis coach and has held the position for approximately 6 years.
Mark’s education career in administration eventually brought him to Ottumwa ,IA where since 2018, he has been providing free tennis lessons in the summers to kids of all ages from 8 through 18. Mark started a grass roots tennis program in Ottumwa. Mark has also been coaching 7th grade boys basketball at Ottumwa junior high along the way. Through his summer lessons, he was able to introduce many of the 7th grade boys basketball players to tennis for the first time. Many of these went on to play high school tennis at Ottumwa High School. Some joining Mark’s team as late as their Senior Year for the first time. Coincidentally, many of the players who went through Mark’s summer lessons over time came back to help with the lessons after graduating high school.
Mark has had at least 10 former players continue on to play in college at schools like University of Iowa, UNI,Central, Kalamazoo, Simpson and Wheaton.
Mark also runs a “ Dan Staggs” local tournament each summer in Ottumwa with both junior and adult events.
Recently, Mark was asked to sit on the Friends of Ottumwa Parks Committee who worked the city and Ottumwa School District to plan and raise money for 8 new beautiful courts on the Ottumwa High School campus.
Lastly, I recently got to meet one of his former players who went on to play college tennis at Central in Pella. This individual will start his full time teaching job in central Iowa this fall and be the assistant coach of a central Iowa high school boys and girls team.
As you can see Mark has built a legacy in Ottumwa of growing the game by encouraging kids to try something new. His efforts have led other good people to follow in his footsteps to pass along the game as well. Mark makes an incredible positive impact. Thank you for your consideration and please let me know if you need anything else from us?
Sincerely, Tim Derouin
Outstanding Diversity Achievement:
Bunny Bruning, Adel, Iowa: Bunny Bruning has been very involved in helping tennis players with disabilities and also encouraging girls and women to get into tennis and teaching tennis. Here are some of her highlights.
Feb: Conducted High School Coaches workshop in DSM
March: Indian Wells: WCRS workshop; did a clinic for women
March & April: went to Boone twice to help high schoolers and then JV
April: Went to Nor Cal certification
May: went to Socal, 2 certifications and led the DEI Meeting at the So Cal RSPA Convention
May: went to Tulsa certification
May: Level 1 cert in DSM
Pickleball cert in DSM
April & June: IOWA Red Ball tour: taught instructors in Cedar Rapids and Quad Cities how to teach beginner girls ages 9 - 12 Red Ball
June: started CITA and WCRS programs: Girls Camp; Learn, Rally PLay for middle schoolers; Tennis for LIttles; Phil Pitzen Teen Clinics for beginners and low JV
Held a Pride event at Southside Tennis Center
WCRS Webinar in a couple days
July: going to Montana in a few days: Speaking at State High SChool sports conference: Communication with Teens and also teaching beginners
Then going to Oklahoma: WCRS Workshop and then Fairfax VA for certifcaiton
Trying to certify as many pros as I can into the game - we need coaches AND female coaches
Also teaching privates a little bit, consulting
Many varios phone and zooms with WCRS Board members and many pros whom I mentor
Writing articles and researching information on Women in sports, health, bbias, leadership
Distinguished Service:
Mark Blume, Ankeny, IA: I’m not sure that there is much that could be said that hasn’t been said about Mark already or before.
Mark Blume, Ankeny, IA: I believe Mark Blume has earned this award due to his commitment to USTA Iowa Tennis before his passing.