Amid Health Struggles, Connecticut’s Casey Jones Finds Purpose Through Tennis and Coaching

In 1980, Jones gave up his career on the court for one in the office, as he became a successful financial advisor for Northwestern Mutual. He continued to play throughout his life and eventually returned to USTA tournaments, even reaching No. 2 in New England in the 55s. But his coaching career had long passed—or so he thought.

In 2021, an opportunity arose to assist at First Serve Bridgeport, an NJTL chapter that offers tennis and education at no cost to kids in and around the Bridgeport area.

Jones began working with two young students in the program—sisters Lohanna and Giuliah Costa, who were 9 and 7 years old at the time, respectively. After just a month together, the budding relationship evolved into Jones taking on a more full-time coaching role, working exclusively with the sisters.

And he did it entirely pro bono.

“I’ve never charged a penny. I’m essentially retired, lessons are expensive, and these girls deserved a break,” Jones said. “After about a month, we really enjoyed working together, so I dedicated myself exclusively to them. They are very grateful, never take anything for granted, and they are the most talented and nicest kids I’ve ever taught.”

Under Jones’ tutelage, the sisters have thrived. Now 13 and 11, Lohanna is ranked No. 43 in New England in the Girls’ 14s division, and Giuliah is ranked No. 50 in Girls’ 12s. They have received summer scholarships to Rafa Nadal Academy Camps and adidas Tennis Camps, performed the coin toss at the US Open, and have both been accepted into the prestigious Greens Farms Academy on full scholarships.

“In teaching them, I have no skin in the game. I’m not getting a penny; I’m just doing it to make them better. It’s truly given me a purpose, and what more can you ask for from coaching?” Jones said.

For the past three years, Jones has endured several health challenges, including battling three different types of cancer and a severe heart condition. Through 48 chemo treatments (at the time of writing) and the addition of a pacemaker, Jones’ dedication to coaching has not wavered.    

“Tennis is the main reason I’m alive today. With my heart condition, the doctors said I was in great shape, and it was tennis that gave me that. I love tennis, it keeps me going and helps me forget all the bumps in the road and everything I’m going through,” Jones said.