Sixteen Years and Counting

Touranment Director - Sally Gibson

Sally Gibson keeps things fun. It doesn’t mean she takes her job lightly.

The Tennis Coordinator at Oxford Club of Pittsburgh, Gibson began running USTA Tournaments in 2004. 

“I had to look back at TennisLink to see how long I’ve been doing this,” she said with a laugh. “Sixteen years, and I still enjoy it.”

The first 15 years were a bit simpler for Gibson. When COVID-19 changed the tournament landscape in 2020, GIbson didn’t use that as an excuse. Instead, she did everything she could to focus on the player experience. 

First and foremost, though, came safety.

Gibson and organizers at Oxford monitored player temperature and were upfront with players by utilizing waivers and printed protocols. Only one spectator was allowed per player, and mask-wearing was enforced for everyone except for those on the court.

Oxford’s first junior event took place in mid-July when the club hosted the USTA Middle States Level 5 Championships. 

“I really enjoyed seeing the players and parents again,” she said. “I think they were happy to be back on the courts.”

Gibson has been a well-respected and popular Tournament Director for years. Her events frequently receive positive feedback, and she’s been nominated by parents for the Middle States Tournament Director of the Year Award each year for the last 10 years.  

To learn more about tennis saftey tips and how to return to the courts safely, check out USTA Middle States Best Practices.