Sideline Scoop—Meet the Coaches: Guido Margiotta, Tennis
When a coach goes beyond teaching skills and shares their love for the sport, it often inspires their athletes to develop that same appreciation. Coach Guido Margiotta is a perfect example of this. The strong, supportive relationships he had with his own coaches growing up motivated him to pursue coaching himself, and he hopes to pass on not just skills, but a lifelong love for tennis to his athletes. Let’s get to know him!
Tell me about your background in tennis and how you became a coach.
I started playing tennis when I was 3 years old and grew up playing with my siblings. I played competitively throughout my youth, then went on to play at Southwest Baptist University and Shaw University. I always had a great relationship with my coaches, which inspired me to start coaching. I love sharing my love for tennis with young athletes because I want them to fall in love with the sport the same way that I did.
What are the most important abilities a player needs to excel in tennis?
Tennis players need to be coachable so they can apply corrections that their coach gives them, and it’s important for them to keep their coach’s feedback in the back of their minds when they’re playing. When competing, it’s essential for tennis players to have sportsmanship and to be compassionate to the player on the other side of the net.
In general, all athletes need to be good, well-rounded human beings. This is taught at J Sports Academy, which is why we have such a great community.
How would you describe your coaching style?
Tennis requires a lot of repetition, so my coaching style tends to be task-oriented. I give tasks to my athletes and see how they can accomplish it. I am always encouraging my players to continue trying and to never give up.
What is your favorite part about coaching at J Sports?
The environment and the charismatic people. Everyone always has smiles on their faces and are greeting each other. It is a really lively environment, and it makes me excited to come to work every day.
