McGrath Brings Personality to Local Adult Tennis

In honor of its 100th anniversary in 2020, the USTA Missouri Valley will be recognizing 100 deserving tennis providers, players, partners and more across our section throughout the year.

Selected nominees will be given a Gold Star award, recognizing them for the contributions they are making to support and grow the game in the USTA Missouri Valley based on specific program areas and attributes. 

One of the award winners from within the USTA Heart of America this September is Marianne McGrath, Vice President of USTA Heart of America Adult Tennis.

“I’m flattered and very touched,” McGrath said. “I hope to stay involved as long as I can because I love the organization and I love being a part of tennis.”

McGrath’s tennis journey began in the 1970’s, by happenstance. She and her husband were golf enthusiasts, but as they raised their three daughters they realized that making time for a round was becoming more and more difficult. Then, a friend invited her to go out and hit at the tennis courts and McGrath found her new passion.

“A pro got me involved in doubles, and the rest is history,” she said. “I was immediately hooked. I was really hooked on the league play, I loved the team thing.”

As VP of Adult Tennis, McGrath plays a large role as a chair of the Adult Competition Committee. The committee makes ruling decisions in the USTA Heart of America, where McGrath excels at viewing the different sides of every scenario. Especially in the time of COVID-19, she and the rest of the committee have had to make the important calls.

“It’s been particularly difficult during the virus,” she said. “Some captains wish things were different and voice their opinions, and that’s good. We like to hear from the captains.”

Over time, McGrath has faced shoulder injuries that have limited the amount of tennis that she can play. That, paired with concerns about the pandemic have sidelined her for the time being. However, it has not stopped her from finding other ways to be involved. 

“I miss playing,” she said. “I’ve stayed involved with my 65s team, and when we can, I’ll get back to supporting and watching the 55s team that I was on. Most of them are my best friends.”

Overall, McGrath’s love of tennis is obvious. Her dedication and magnetic personality make her an integral member of USTA Heart of America tennis.