Honoring Texas Tennis Veterans and the Spirit of Service

AUSTIN, Texas — This Veterans Day, USTA Texas proudly recognizes and thanks the veterans within its tennis family — individuals whose dedication and service extend far beyond the court. Among those honored are volunteer committee members Charles K. Roach Jr., Eric Huntley, William Hurt, and Matt Pyle, as well as staff member Katherine Kaliski, each of whom shared heartfelt reflections on what Veterans Day means to them.

Charles K. Roach Jr. served as a Naval Officer aboard the USS Donald B Beary and as Command Duty Officer at Naval Base Sewells Point in Norfolk, VA and now is on the USTA Texas Adult/Senior Competitive Committee. He said,“For all my country has done for me and my family, my service has squared that account. I love my country, and my service was the ultimate expression of that love.”

For Eric Huntley, an Airman who served from 1981-1985, is a part of the USTA Texas Junior Competitive Committee, and received the USTA Texas Community Service Award winner in 2017, Veterans Day serves as a moment to remember the shared sacrifices and deep sense of duty that come with military service.

“Veterans Day reminds me of the honor and responsibility of standing alongside others who were willing to serve something greater than themselves,” he said. “It brings back memories of sacrifice — sacrifice of those who stood beside me, sacrifice of my father who served, and sacrifice of all others before me.”

William Hurt, who now serves on  the USTA Texas Discipline and Grievance Committee, is a United States Air Force veteran of 20 years. He reflected on the strength and unity that define the day: “Veterans Day represents the duty, honor, and sacrifices endured by those that have defended our great Nation! It is a day set aside to honor those that have given much and created the legacy of the greatest Nation on Earth!”

Army veteran Matt Pyle, was a Sergeant (E5) in the 82nd Airborne Division from 1984-1988 and currently serves on the USTA Texas Awards Committee shared his personal pride in service.

“It was a pleasure and an honor to serve in defense of this great nation of ours,” he said. “And I would do it again if called upon!"

From the USTA Texas staff, Katherine Kaliski, Community Service Coordinator and Army veteran, shared her appreciation for the bravery and selflessness of all who have served.