Celebrating Culture and Coaching: JP Bonilla Honors Hispanic Heritage

Coach Jean-Paul “JP” Bonilla sees coaching as more than developing great tennis players, it’s about shaping confident, culturally grounded individuals. As a proud Latino and lifelong student of the game, Bonilla blends tradition, mentorship and purpose into every practice. During Coaches Appreciation Month and Hispanic Heritage Month, he reflects on how his heritage and passion for coaching come together to uplift the next generation — both on and off the court.

Introduced to tennis at the age of Five by his father, Bonilla’s early start laid the foundation for a lifelong passion.

His passion is fueled by more than wins and rankings — it's about mentorship, connection, and cultural pride.

Bonilla emphasizes how his Hispanic heritage has deeply influenced his coaching style. Whether it’s shifting communication styles for Spanish-speaking families or aligning coaching goals among players, parents and staff, Bonilla creates a unified, culturally aware coaching environment.

“My approach changes once I know the player or parent prefers Spanish,” he said. “It keeps everyone on the same page.”

Growing up, Andre Agassi was a major influence on Bonilla, not just for his on-court style, but for the similarities in background. Like Bonilla’s father, Agassi’s dad was an immigrant, and that connection resonated deeply.

Now, as a coach, Bonilla channels those inspirations into his own work as a coach.

“I appreciate all my coaches growing up very much,” Bonilla said. “Personally, I just want to pay it forward and share all the knowledge to help others achieve their goals.”

Bonilla believes strongly in the power of representation in sports — especially for Latino youth.

“Representation goes back to respecting your roots and where you came from,” he said. “Especially when there has been a 90% increase in Hispanic/Latino participation in the last three years.”

He’s made it a point to integrate culture into his coaching philosophy, celebrating family-focused values and organizing culture-themed tennis events. Whether it’s accommodating Hispanic holiday traditions or recognizing player birthdays, family always comes first.

Off the court, Bonilla gives back through service. He volunteers with the USTA Texas Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, works with Parks & Recreation programs, trains PE teachers and supports the Houston Tennis Association — all in efforts to grow the game within underserved communities.

In his training environment, Bonilla fosters both cultural pride and athletic excellence. One of his favorite tools is a “Brag Book,” showcasing photos and details of his players’ achievements, especially college scholarship earnings — to encourage and educate.

“I edify and recognize them in front of their peers,” Bonilla said. “My favorite part is telling everyone how much money they earned in scholarships.”

As Coaches Appreciation Month highlights those who give selflessly to build champions, and Hispanic Heritage Month honors cultural contributions, Coach JP Bonilla stands at the intersection as a mentor, role model, and proud Latino voice in tennis.

“It’s all about giving back,” he said. “And making sure every player feels seen, valued and inspired.”