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Pacific Northwest captain Joanna Tang gives credit for the team's success to their coach Jason Chapman, head tennis pro at Robinswood Tennis Center.
© Juan Ocampo
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PNW team member Libby Miller skipped her high school reunion to play in this weekend's event.
© Juan Ocampo
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By Noreen Javadi, special to USTA.com
RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. -- It’s been quite a run for the Pacific Northwest Section women’s 2.5 team, which plays at the Robinswood Tennis Center.
This weekend’s appearance at the Mission Hills Country Club marks the sixth time in the last seven years that the Bellevue, Wash. outfit has sent a team to the USTA League National Championships.
Captain Joanna Tang gives credit for the team’s success to their coach Jason Chapman, head tennis pro at Robinswood TC.
"I thought that was great about Jason, that during the tryouts it was not just about winning, but who has the better potential, athleticism, dedication and who was willing to follow his instructions," said Tang.
Chapman put together the eight player team and expected a high level of commitment and support for each other as a team. The players knew that even though they may not be playing a match, they should to be there to support their teammates and be a part of the team.
One of the keys to the team’s success is the players’ dedication and commitment.
The level of commitment is exemplified by team member, Libby Miller, who served as Co-chair on Bellevue High School’s 30-year Reunion Planning Committee. Although the reunion was scheduled for this weekend, Miller chose to come to Rancho Mirage and play at the League National Championships.
"What I like about the beginning level (of USTA Leagues) is the enthusiasm, they listen to everything you say, they want to work hard and practice all the time. They just really want to get better." Chapman said. "I get a lot of satisfaction out of coaching the 2.5’s.
"I feel like I can mold them, teach them strokes, teach them new strategy and that will continue the rest of their tennis career."
Chapman is in Rancho Mirage this weekend with his sixth women’s 2.5 team. He coached three women’s teams (4.0, 2004; 2.5, 2006; 3.5, 2010) to second place finishes in USTA League National Championships.
When asked what he enjoyed most about coaching USTA League players, Chapman responded, "I like the community part of it – putting teams together. Once the team starts to do well, we start working harder and harder, trying to get to the next level."