Senior Coach – Ezequiel Chaves

My name is Ezequiel. I was born in Argentina and I came to New Zealand in 2019. I started tennis lessons when I was 9 years old and competed as a junior player back in my home country and then became a Coach. I really enjoyed my tennis lessons when I was young and connected to the game. I would like to transfer that same enthusiasm to the players and encourage them to enjoy the sport that I love!

Before coming to New Zealand I have worked in Argentina as a tennis coach since 2016 and I became Head Coach of Los Almendros Tennis Club. During 2018, while I was attending my tennis studies I helped facilitate a tennis programme at a school.

Qualifications:

• ITF Level 1 Tennis Coach
• Diploma of High Sports Performance instructor

Junior Coach – Cayla

My name is Cayla, I was born in South Africa and moved to New Zealand when I was 6. I’ve been playing tennis since I was 8 years old, and I started competing in tournaments and interclub when I was 10. I played caro reserve from the age of 13 to 15. I also participated in Chelsea Cup on the North Shore for Lake Pupuke tennis club.

Some of my playing highlights include competing in regional junior team events for Northern Region through most of my younger career and being selected for the junior masters final. I have played in ITF tournaments and travelled to Australia to compete.

I have completed the coaching assistant’s course and I am in progress of completing the Junior Development coaching course. I am also coaching/ hitting at Sunnyhills tennis club. My favourite part of tennis coaching is seeing the players grow and become more confident in their playing abilities.

Qualifications:

• ITF level 1 Junior Development Coach (in progress)