St. John’s Leo Named USTA Eastern Organizer of the Month

July 21, 2016 | By New York Tennis Magazine Staff

St. John’s women’s tennis head coach Lauren Leo was named the USTA Eastern’s Tennis Organizer of the Month for July based on her “dedication to coaching and excellence in growing tennis.”

Leo became the St. John’s head coach last August, and led the Red Storm to a 14-5 record and a third place finish at the Big East Championships. She came to St. John’s following stints as a head coach for Hunter College, Adelphi University and most recently the director of tennis at Hofstra University before taking over the head coaching duties at her alma mater.

“When I am coaching, I emphasize to my players that it is important to focus on the high percentage tennis. I also encourage them to always maintain a positive attitude,” said Leo. “I love everything about coaching. I enjoy being able to provide the same opportunities I once had as a
player while giving back to the tennis community.      

Some people think of tennis as an individual sport, but once you’re on a team, when you compete, you see your teammates putting in 100 percent and it fires you up to work even harder. You want to contribute to something greater than yourself.”

In addition to her coaching role for the Red Storm, Leo also coaches for local youth players. She will travel to California at the end of the month to coach the USTA Eastern’s Girls 18s National Team.

“I think Junior Team Tennis is a great way for kids to get involved with tennis by playing on a team,” said Leo. “Kids should enjoy getting out on the tennis court and not get too stressed out about the end result.”


New York Tennis Magazine Staff
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