Missouri Valley / Oklahoma

March Spotlight of the Month: Volunteer

Casey McKenzie | March 23, 2022

Each month, USTA Oklahoma will highlight a player, a volunteer, and a NJTL (National Junior Tennis & Learning) or Adaptive Tennis Player. After selecting the 3 winners, USTA Oklahoma will sit down for Q & A with the spotlight of the month.

Athlete-- Any player that has good sportsmanship & dedication to the sport, whether they are just starting out in a Team Challenge or they are a National ranked player we would love to hear who you would recommend from your team or facility. Click here to read about March's athlete of the month, Megan Fischer.
Volunteer--A person that has gone above and beyond for your facility or program.
NJTL/Adaptive Player--A player that has demonstrated hard work and dedication they have put forth in their program. Click here to read about March's adaptive player of the month, Trafford Gould.

The March volunteer spotlight of the month is….

Emmy Hufnagel

Where do you volunteer?

I am a volunteer coach and mentor with First Serve OKC. Our programs are at OKC Tennis Center, OKC Public Schools, Pitts Park, and Positive Tomorrows.

What organization do you volunteer for?

First Serve OKC

How long have you been volunteering at this organization?

Only a few weeks. I recently transitioned from serving for 9 years as Executive Director to volunteering. I'm excited to stay connected with our students, staff, and volunteers.

Do you play tennis?

Not much for myself, but I try to stay sharp to hit with our kids. They're getting older and becoming really competitive, so they push me to stay on my game.

Favorite tennis memory?

Winning in the mixed open division of the Ponca Open with my dad when I was a kid.

Where are you from?

I graduated from Ponca City High School. I also grew up in Stillwater for much of my childhood, and my parents are living there now. So I claim both.

How long have you been playing?

My dad started hitting around with me when I was young- maybe 5 or 6. When I was about 11, I started to get into it more seriously, taking lessons and playing tournaments.

Favorite athlete?

I really admire Andy Murray and Naomi Osaka for their stances on various social issues. In the running scene, I'm fascinated by the tenacity of Mo Farah, Camille Heron, and Tommy "Rivs" Puzey.

Who is your tennis coach?

Personally, I don't have one. As a coach, I've learned a lot over the years from Laura Puryear and believe in the child-centered philosophy she teaches.

What is your pre-match ritual or pre-match meal?

I just try to calm my mind and be in the present before stepping on the court.

What racquet do you use?

Wilson Clash

Forehand or backhand?

Backhand, all day.

Favorite sport, besides tennis?

Running. I love the freedom and flow I feel on a long run.

Favorite food?

I eat a lot of salad, and ice cream is pretty good.

Skip Advertisement

Coach Antonio Lares
July 25, 2025

In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month USTA Oklahoma is featuring Antonio Lares, a first-generation Mexican-American who shares his passion for tennis at First Serve OKC. Read More
Coach Carlos Salazar
June 23, 2025

Carlos Salazar, former NCAA Division-I tennis player and coach at Case Tennis Center at LaFortune Park in Tulsa, champions LGBTQ+ visibility during Pride Month. Read More
New Indoor Courts
June 18, 2025

Case Tennis Center at LaFortune Park in Tulsa hosted a grand opening for its three new indoor tennis courts in April and was recently selected for a $150,000 USTA grant. Read More