In this episode of the Vida Tennis podcast, we welcome Tarek Francis, a seasoned tennis coach and entrepreneur based in Brussels, with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Tarek shares his inspiring journey from corporate life at Nike and IBM to becoming a multifaceted leader in tennis. He discusses his diverse projects, including the Ikigai Business and Leadership Academy, Salon Tennis, and Smash Experience, as well as his innovative training modules for coaching and club management.

Tarek emphasizes the importance of developing adult tennis programming and the need for coaches to embrace a more purpose-driven career. He introduces the concept of IKIGAI, encouraging coaches to balance on-court skills with off-court responsibilities. The conversation also explores the evolving landscape of tennis compared to other sports like pickleball and padel, highlighting the challenges and opportunities within the industry.

Get ready to hear from one of the best out there, only here at Vida Tennis!

Tarek's website:

https://tarekfrancis.com

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In this episode we welcome Conor Casey, a former professional and collegiate tennis player who now serves as the head pro at Kingston Tennis Club. Known for his humorous and engaging presence on Instagram as @coachconorcasey, Conor shares his unique journey from aspiring pro to beloved coach, revealing how he found joy in teaching after initially struggling with the pressures of competition.

The conversation highlights the importance of humor in coaching and how laughter can create a more enjoyable learning environment for players.

Conor's passion for tennis and teaching shines through, making it clear that his approach balances fun with accountability. Tune in for an insightful look at the lighter side of tennis coaching, underscoring the importance of humor and connection in the sport.

Conor Casey:

Ig: @tenniscoachconorcasey

Tennis is having a midlife crisis

Vida Tennis:

www.vidatennispodcast.com

Ig @vidatennispodcast

Fb @vidatennis

Contact us at:

⁠⁠vidatennispodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠

https://www.facebook.com/people/Vida-Tennis/100092214093468/

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Dr. Groppel shares his remarkable journey, seamlessly blending science and tennis into an extraordinary career. From walking onto the University of Illinois tennis team to becoming the youngest NCAA coach at 25, his path was anything but ordinary. He delves into his groundbreaking work in biomechanics, co-founding the USTA Sports Science Committee, and developing a revolutionary mind-body training system later acquired by Johnson & Johnson. Dr. Groppel also discusses the impact of technology and social media on the brain, offering insights into neuro-literacy and behavior change techniques for junior players. This engaging conversation provides a rare glimpse into the life of a true legend who has left an indelible mark on the world of tennis and sports science.

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