Swartz and Woo Named August Captains of the Month

Sylvia, whose Women’s 18 & Over 2.5 team called, Lobettes, plays out of Longfellow Wayland, will be competing in Tucson beginning on September 29. Danne’s squad, Not My Faults, is a Men’s 18 & Over 3.0 team from New Canaan Racquet Club playing in Surprise on October 13. 

Sylvia has been captaining since 1989 and does it for the joy of helping others. 

“I enjoy bringing in new players and showing them the fun of playing USTA tennis with players of their own level,” said Sylvia, who is an award-winning teaching pro at Longfellow. 

Sylvia also is the Executive Director of Handi-Racket Tennis, the longest-running instructional tennis program for people with disabilities in the US. She shares some of the qualities that have made her successful in both realms. 

“You need to have patience, cooperation, understanding and compassion. I feel like I’m honest with my players, care for them and am consistent,” Sylvia said. 

This is Sylvia’s second overall trip to Nationals. She last went in 2018. Sylvia also currently captains a Women’s 55 & Over 7.0 team. 

“Nikhil and I both have a love and passion for tennis and were excited to put together a team and play more competitively, which neither of us had done prior to this experience,” said Danne, the first-year captain. “I believe being a captain is about creating a positive experience for all involved, that includes our teammates as well as those we compete against. The ultimate goal is to have fun.”

Danne and Nikhil work seamlessly together. In just their first season, they’ve already figured out how to gel as co-captains. 

“I think our personalities and styles compliment each other well. Nikhil puts together these amazingly detailed summaries of each match which read like a script from ESPN. He also is our social leader and plans dinners and outings,” Danne said. “I come from sunny San Diego and emit a very laid back vibe that is chill yet supportive. I try to always have a smile on my face, on and off court, to keep everyone relaxed and having a good time. I also try to be communicative and clear with my messages to avoid any confusion or frustration when planning for events or matches.”

Danne added, “All my teammates, the teams we have had the honor of playing against and everyone that I have met through USTA tennis have all been amazing. I am honored to have been nominated and excited to keep wearing the captain hat for as long as I can.